Submitted By:C Swarens

Although dogs are among the most beloved pets in the world, some do suffer from serious aggression problems. In fact, experts estimate that approximately 2% if the United States population is bitten by a dog each year, which equals about 4.3 million people. Although these statistics sound a bit frightening, the reality is that many dog bites can be avoided if you understand the causes of dog aggression and how to avoid putting yourself in a bad situation.

Types of Aggression

There are many different causes, or types, of aggressive behavior. These include aggression that is based upon:

• Dominance - Since dogs are naturally pack animals, it is also natural for them to want to be the leader of the pack. In some cases, this desire to be the leader can be directed toward humans and even toward the dog's owner.

• Fear - When a frightened dog is approached by a person or an animal, it may act in an aggressive manner if feels cornered and there is no way of escape.

• Female Dominance - Two female dogs may show aggression toward each other, particularly if they live in the same household.

• Pain - If a person or an animal causes a dog pain, such as when touching a painful area or when giving injections, the dog may exhibit what is called induced aggression.

• Male Dominance - It is not uncommon for two male dogs to exhibit aggression toward each other as they battle for territory.

• Maternal - A female dog that is pregnant or that has recently had puppies can become quite aggressive in an attempt to protect her pups.

• Predatory - Dogs are natural predators, meaning they will exhibit aggression toward anything they consider to be prey. This can be other animals, but can be anything else that moves quickly, such as a bike, a car or a scared person running away.

• Territorial - Dogs are also very territorial animals, meaning they will do whatever it takes to protect their property. A dog's home, room and yard are all part of its territory, which the dog will fight to protect.

Treating Aggression

If your dog frequently exhibits aggressive behavior, you should discuss the problem with your veterinarian. In some cases, there may be a medical reason causing the aggressive behavior. For example, your dog may have an unknown health issue that is causing it to feel pain, which is making it overly sensitive and aggressive when touched.

If your veterinarian has determined that there is no medical reason for the aggressive, he or she may recommend seeing a behavioral therapist who can help you treat your dog's aggressive behavior. Even if the therapy appears to be successful, it is important to continue implementing the steps prescribed by the behavior therapist in order to make certain aggressive behaviors do not reappear.

In addition, if your dog is dangerously aggressive, you may need to seriously consider removing the dog from your home in order to keep yourself, your family and your friends safe.