Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Inter-Dog Aggression Assessment and Management

Inter-dog aggression is a leading cause of dog relinquishment and has significant welfare implications for both the aggressive dog and their victims.

Key Facts

Inter-dog aggression is the most common reason dogs are relinquished to shelters
Fear and resource competition drive most inter-dog aggression
Professional behavioural assessment is essential before management decisions
Medication including fluoxetine reduces reactivity and improves behaviour therapy outcomes
Management without treatment perpetuates fear and stress in the aggressive dog

Welfare Considerations

Both the aggressive dog and their victims experience fear and stress in aggressive encounters. The aggressive dog is often fearful - aggression is a fear response in many cases. Relinquishment without addressing the underlying cause perpetuates suffering. Evidence-based assessment and treatment by a clinical animal behaviourist offers the most welfare-positive path.

What You Can Do

Seek professional behavioural assessment for dogs showing aggression
Avoid punitive responses to aggression which increase fear
Support behaviour referral services as part of veterinary practice