Dog aggression towards humans and other animals is a leading cause of relinquishment and euthanasia. Evidence-based rehabilitation offers meaningful outcomes for many affected dogs.
Aggressive dogs frequently suffer from underlying fear, anxiety, or pain that has not been addressed. Punitive responses to aggression increase fear, worsen the underlying condition, and increase bite risk. Welfare-centred rehabilitation treats aggression as a symptom of distress rather than a character flaw. Many dogs labelled as dangerous can live safely with appropriate management and therapy.