Why do dogs attack? That's a question many people ask themselves when they see their friend suddenly being aggressive or attacking a loved one. And it is that for coexistence to be good for everyone, it is very important that humans dedicate time to understand the body language of the animals that live at home, because they are what they do with us every day.
So if you want to know the answer to that question, then we are going to talk at length about it.
Why do they attack?
Dogs can attack for various reasons:
- Pain: when they feel pain in any part of their body and we touch them right in that sensitive area, they can attack us.
- Maternal instinctBitches that have just become mothers can be very protective if we try to pet or catch the puppies.
- To defend: either because they have been abused or because they feel that their life depends on it.
- Territory: It is not that they are very territorial animals (of course, not as much as cats can be), but you can always find one that does not tolerate any new dog in their home.
- Meal: for all living beings it is very important to eat, in one way or another. In the case of dogs, if they have anxiety or have suffered harassment while eating, there is the possibility that they will attack if they are disturbed or if you try to remove the feeder, something that by the way should NOT ever be done. None of us would like to have our plate taken away while we are eating.
- Over-protection: for example, when a dog protects a person excessively and also she has not dedicated much time to training, only to give him food and affection. Another person may end up getting a bite from the dog when he tries to get close to her.
- Socialization poor: dogs from 2 to 3 months must have contact with other dogs, cats and people so that tomorrow, when they are adults, they know how to be with them. But if that doesn't happen, once they grow up they could be aggressive.
How do you know if they are going to attack?
Dogs are peaceful animals by nature, the first thing they will do is "warn" that they feel bothered and / or tense. How will they do it? With grunts, stares, showing teeth, bristling the fur on his back and tail, and / or even walking away from what or those who are ignoring all these messages.
You have to know that they always, always warn. The fact that there are parents who say that their dogs have attacked their child "without reason" ... it must make us think. In these situations it is good to ask yourself what the child was doing to the animals, and if the aforementioned were well socialized when they were puppies. Why am I saying this? Because it is believed that dogs can be pulled by their tails and stick their fingers in their eyes and / or nose as if nothing else, but this is a very serious mistake.
Good coexistence goes through respecting dogs. If there is no respect there may be attacks.
Can attacks be prevented?
Of course yes. And for that I recommend doing the following:
- Socialize the puppies. Here explains how to do it.
- Take them out for walks and exercise daily, at least 3 times / day.
- Take them to the vet whenever they need it, especially if we suspect they are sick.
- Treat them with respect, patience and affection. Do not mistreat them.
- Understand your body language to better communicate with them.
I hope this article has been useful to you.