Dogs may act aggressively because of fear, anxiety, or frustration. Traumatic past experiences such as abuse, neglect, or violence may also lead to aggressive behavior. As in humans, PTSD can rewire dogs’ brains to trigger stress responses when exposed to stimuli similar to a past traumatic event.
Aggressive behavior can also result from resource guarding and territoriality. Animals may try to control access to physical areas, toys, food, or resting places.
Addressing dogs’ aggression starts with determining underlying causes. Look for other behaviors like whining or urine marking. Consulting with your vet is an ideal first step in finding solutions.