Aggressive Dog Breeds - Nature Vs Nurture

Article Title: Aggressive Dog Breeds - Nature Vs Nurture
Author: Colin Pederson

Aggression in dogs does, and will continue to raise controversy
in the ongoing 'nature' vs 'nurture' argument among dog owners
and critics alike. Many people have misconceptions about what
breeds aggressive and what ones aren't. As a general rule,
aggressive dog breeds are behave instinctually, using
aggression as a means to assert dominance and intimidate others
around them. Dog aggression issues are often one of the first
aspects of a dog's nature that you'll notice, whether it's a
welcoming, content dog, or hostile and aggressive. The
growling, snarling, biting and lunging are the main signs that
you're dealing with an aggressive dog.

Most people don't really expect to be attacked or bitten by a
family dog, but unfortunately it does happen. Why is that then?
Well, a big part of these un-expected attacks is when people buy
into the belief that some dog breeds are extremely vicious and
aggressive - like pit bulls, and that these vicious dogs are
the only dogs that attack. But did you know that the breeds
that are more likely to bite are the ones people rarely think
about - like the cuddly poodle or the terrier.

The truth about aggressive dogs is, all dogs are potentially
aggressive, and all dogs will attack if abused. There's no such
thing as a "bad" breed. Practically all kinds of dogs are
trainable. Allowing dogs to socialize with other dogs also
helps in turning them into creatures that are much more
civilized and more tolerant of other dogs and people.

Dog owners have a responsibility to care for and train their
dogs (no matter the breed) to follow basic commands like come,
sit, lie and stay. Subjecting dogs to some sort of dog-training
or obedience-school represents one way of effectively preventing
future aggression.

Here's a look at the various dog breeds that are considered
potentially aggressive.

- Chow Chows are one person dogs that often strike without any
warning or provocation.
- Old English Sheepdogs are very protective of their masters
and can become aggressive when somebody gets close, or possibly
threatening to its owners.
- A Llasa Apso often becomes agitated when among excitable
children.
- Rottweilers are extremely protective of their masters, often
at the center of aggression incidents.
- Chihuahuas - although small, they can become very snappy when
around children. They'd rather be with adults than play around
with tots.
- Toy Poodles are known to bite people and other animals out of
self-defense. Poodles will often perceive your playful behavior
as threatening and strike back.
- Dachshunds aren't known for their patience.
- Giant Schnauzers are a very dominant breed. They will often
challenge their owners or others.
- The Pekinese isn't all that tolerant.
- Miniature Pinschers have aggressive tendencies, because
they've got this "big dog-little body" mindset going on.

Here's a rundown of breeds that are known to be aggressive
breeds, but are generally a good family breed.

- Boxers are very comfortable around, and affectionate toward
children.
- Bulldogs like to be interacted with and are very gentle.
- Great Danes, while considerably large in size, happen to be
kind and affectionate.
- Mastiffs are especially quiet and docile.
- German Shepherds prove to be a good family dog.
- Rottweilers are also capable of tenderness and affection.

Most pit-bulls aren't really aggressive by nature. They tend to
be loving, gentle and playful. The Pit Bull's aggressive
reputation comes from abusive, irresponsible owners, raising
vicious, aggressive dogs. Such pit bulls tend to be more
aggressive toward other animals than people. Aggressive pit
bulls often have a history of being abused or neglected. Pit
bulls that have been mistreated are obviously unsuitable as a
family pet.

Whether you've got a puppy or a full-grown dog, what's
important is that you give it the attention and care it
deserves. Recognizing and heeding the warning signs of
potential dog aggression problems will make it easier to deal
with them at an early stage. When in doubt about something
dog-related, consult with a qualified veterinarian and/or
animal behaviorist.

If you are concerned about your dog's aggression issue's and
are ready to take action right now. It is your obligation to
see the signs of aggression in your dog, and to take action,
for the sake of your family, your neighbor's, and for your
family pet itself.

It is a sad statistic that every year the number of fatal
dog-attacks steadily rises in this country. Dog attacks lead to
expensive law suites, dis-figuration and even death for
unsuspecting victims.

About The Author: Colin Pederson is a self-confessed 'Dog
Fanatic' residing in California with his wife and black Lab
Casey. Colin runs 'Dog Obedience Advice,' offering free advice
on dealing with http://dogobedienceadvice.com/dog_aggression,
and other issues all dog owners face.

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