Canine fear-related aggression (Proceedings)

Fear aggression is triggered by a stimulus that appears threatening to the dog. It is sometimes referred to as defensive aggression although there might be aspects of defensive aggression where the pet does not appear to be fearful. For example, aggression in response to ear cleaning or physical punishment might be examples of defensive aggression where the fear component is minimal. Fear aggression may be displayed when a dog is the recipient of assertive posturing or facial expressions, or approached by another dog or person that is unfamiliar, unfriendly or in some way threatening to the dog. It usually occurs when the dog is unable to avoid the stimulus that brings about a fear aggressive response.

Inadequate socialization, traumatic experiences, punishment and genetics can all contribute to the development of fear aggression.. Fear aggression may be aggravated when the owner responds with punishment or anxiety, when the stimulus (e.g. other dog) shows fear or aggression or when the stimulus retreats (negative reinforcement).by talking softly to the dog in an attempt to reduce its anxiety. It is also possible that the owner's attempts to settle the dog by offering a toy or treat may reinforce the behavior.

Genetics can play a role in determining the threshold for a fear response. There is considerable variation in the canine population regarding the types of responses that are generated by fear-provoking stimuli. Some dogs require a very strong stimulus to elicit fear, while others become extremely anxious in response to mild stimuli or any auditory or visual stimuli that is only the least bit unusual.

A dog that has a low threshold for becoming fearful that encounters multiple, strong, fear-inducing stimuli with little chance for escape has a high likelihood of biting, especially if biting has caused the stimulus to move away during past encounters.

Determinants of the probability of a bite from a fearful pet

Diagnosis and prognosis

Fear aggression is manifested by fearful facial expressions and body postures (tail down, ears rotated back, crouched body, weight shifted away from the fear-eliciting stimulus) accompanied by aggressive signs such as piloerection, barking, growling, snarling and biting. Dilated pupils, increased respiratory rate and a rapid heart rate generally accompany an overwhelming fear response. The pet might also defecate or urinate if it is exceptionally fearful.

Factors suggesting a good prognosis include

• The duration of the problem is short

• The fearful behavior was acquired as an adult

• All fear-eliciting stimuli are well defined

• Fear-eliciting environmental stimuli can be controlled

• The pet has a relatively high threshold for responding to fear stimuli

• The pet can be protected from strong stimulus exposure during treatment.

The prognosis for safe resolution of fear aggression is generally more favorable (particularly if all potential stimuli can be identified) than for dominance-related aggression but adequate care must still be taken. The owners, as well as others, are at risk handling a dog with fear aggression and must be counseled accordingly.

Management

Early recognition and intervention leads to the most effective cures. Fear aggression is best managed with gradual exposure techniques involving desensitization and counterconditioning exercises. It is crucial that all fear-eliciting stimuli and situations are identified before behavioral modification begins. The goal is to replace the pet's fear response with another response, such as anticipation of food or play. Safety is very important. Injuries should be prevented by taking precautions and by proceeding with patience. Family members must be cautioned to avoid consoling the pet or giving treats to calm it down when it acts in a fear-aggressive way or they may inadvertently reinforce the behavior. Punishment is contraindicated.

Management of canine fear-related aggression

Prevention

Socialization and protection of the puppy during early, sensitive months of development is extremely important. The young dog should meet as many different types of people in controlled, pleasant situations as often as possible during the early months of life. Food treats given by the people the dog meets can help facilitate socialization. Owners should be encouraged to concentrate on using positive reinforcement rather than punishment for training.

References

(Reprinted with modification from Handbook of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat, 2nd Edition, Landsberg, Hunthausen, Ackerman (2003) Saunders Pub.