Canine aggression is a welfare problem for both the dog and potential victims. Evidence-based assessment and rehabilitation offer alternatives to euthanasia for many aggressive dogs.
Aggressive behaviour in dogs often reflects underlying welfare problems including fear, pain, poor socialisation or chronic stress. Many dogs labelled as aggressive are suffering and would benefit from welfare-focused assessment and treatment rather than euthanasia. Evidence-based behaviour modification under qualified clinical supervision achieves good outcomes in many cases. Honest welfare assessment must balance the dog's rehabilitative potential against realistic risk to humans and other animals.