Aggressive behavior in dogs is a complex issue with many contributing factors. While genetics, early life experiences, training and socialization all play a role, there are some patterns that emerge as dogs mature. This article will examine the question: do aggressive dogs tend to get worse with age?
In the opening paragraphs, we’ll provide quick answers to some key questions:
Do aggressive puppies always become aggressive adults? No, with proper training and socialization from an early age, many puppies outgrow aggressive tendencies. However, genetics and trauma can predispose some puppies towards lifelong aggression issues.
At what age is dog aggression most common? Dog aggression peaks at two distinct age ranges: during adolescence around 6-18 months old and again in late adulthood around age 8-12.
Are certain dog breeds more aggressive? Some breeds like Dobermans, Rottweilers and German Shepherds tend to score higher on aggression due to genetics. However, any dog can become aggressive with poor handling.
By exploring the way aggression develops and changes over a dog’s lifespan, we can better understand how to prevent and manage this challenging behavior.
Aggression in Puppies
Many puppies, especially those separated from their littermates too early, go through a normal biting and mouthing phase while learning bite inhibition. Most respond well to training and outgrow this stage relatively quickly. However, some signs of true aggression in puppies include:
- Growling or biting when handled roughly or when possessions are taken away
- A lack of response to training techniques to curb biting
- Inappropriate, excessive aggression towards people or other animals
These tendencies do not necessarily persist into adulthood. With proper socialization and positive reinforcement training, many aggressive puppies develop better manners and coping skills. However genetics, trauma, lack of training, or pain/illness can cause the behavior to escalate over time.
Impact of Early Socialization
Exposing puppies to a wide variety of people, animals, places and handling from 3-16 weeks old is crucial for proper social development. Puppies deprived of these experiences are at higher risk for fear-based aggression later on.
Adolescent Aggression
The adolescent period ranging from 6 months to 2 years of age poses new behavior challenges for many dog owners:
- Testing boundaries with owners
- Same-sex aggression with other dogs
- Territorial behavior and resource guarding
This is driven by maturity of the nervous and reproductive systems. Patience, consistency and positive training help guide dogs through this phase. Neutering/spaying may reduce some adolescent hormonal aggression. The takeaway is that adolescent dogs require extra supervision, training and outlets for energy to minimize this stage.
Adolescent Aggression Warning Signs
Contact a veterinary behaviorist if an adolescent dog shows aggression that is:
- Unprovoked or unpredictable in nature
- Directed at familiar people like family members
- Escalating in frequency or severity despite training efforts
Aggression in Adult Dogs
Most dogs settle down somewhat behaviorally by 2-3 years old, provided they have been properly exercised, socialized and trained. However aggression may resurface or worsen later in adulthood, generally from age 8 years onward.
Common Causes of Aggression in Older Dogs
| Medical Causes | Situational Triggers |
|---|---|
| Arthritis/joint pain | Being disturbed while sleeping or resting |
| Dementia | Having possessions/food taken away |
| Dental disease | Being handled when injured or ill |
| Vision or hearing impairment | Unfamiliar people approaching |
Seeing a veterinarian to diagnose and address any physical problems contributing to aggression is key. Medications may help take the edge off while behavior modification training is implemented. Owners also need to manage the dog’s environment proactively by avoiding known triggers.
Is Euthanasia Ever Recommended for Aggressive Dogs?
In very severe cases of unpredictable, unmanageable aggression, euthanasia may be the most responsible option. Your veterinarian can help you weigh your options.
The Role of Genetics
Certain breeds like Dobermans, Rottweilers and German Shepherds tend to score higher on aggression assessments. However, genetics are just one piece of the puzzle. Early socialization and training have a profound impact on regulating inherited tendencies toward aggression. With consistent structure and handling, even predisposed breeds can become safe family companions.
The Importance of Neutering/Spaying
Intact dogs are more likely to exhibit aggression due to hormonal fluctuations. Neutering or spaying can minimize this influence, especially when done at an early age. Talk to your veterinarian about the ideal timing for your breed.
Preventing Aggression
While there are no guarantees, the following steps stack the deck in your favor when it comes to raising a non-aggressive dog:
- Selecting a puppy from parents with sound temperaments
- Proper socialization and bite inhibition training during puppyhood
- Early obedience training and structure
- Neutralizing triggers like pain, fear and resource guarding
- Avoiding punitive methods – aggression often stems from fear
- Seeking professional help at the first sign of a problem
Investing time, effort and expert guidance early on is the best way to prevent aggression from developing over your dog’s lifetime.
Conclusion
While some puppies outgrow aggressive tendencies, others require life-long management. Neutering, socialization, training, avoiding triggers and consulting behavior professionals are key to reducing risk. Aggression often escalates through adolescence, settles in adulthood, but may return in a dog’s senior years. An owner’s vigilance across all life stages offers the best chance for a rewarding human-canine bond built on trust.