Canine aggression causes welfare harm to both the dog and potential victims; welfare-centred approaches prioritise understanding and treating the underlying cause.
Aggressive dogs frequently suffer from fear, pain or conflict that drives their behaviour. The welfare of the dog must be considered alongside public safety in managing aggression. Punitive approaches to aggressive dogs increase arousal and fear, worsening the underlying problem and increasing welfare harm. Euthanasia without professional behavioural assessment represents a welfare failure. The welfare-centred approach requires comprehensive veterinary assessment to rule out pain, professional behavioural evaluation, and a management plan that addresses the dog's underlying emotional state.