Nobody wants to be around a growling dog. Being on the receiving end of an intense growl from an agitated dog is an extremely intimidating circumstance. Although growling is a largely unwanted behaviour, it is an important means of communication among canines. A growl can mean many things; is the dog angry, fearful, agitated, or aggressive?
Before we can begin correcting this unwelcome behaviour, it is essential to understand what a dog’s growl represents. Without reaching a level of understanding, there is the high likelihood this behaviour will not only continue, but progressively worsen over time.
A growl is typically used as a warning mechanism, acting as a behavioural buffer between a warning and an action. Without proper intervention, growls are often escalated with a snap or bite. Many dog owners take to punishing their dog for growling, however this may result in a dog that skips their warning buffer and goes immediately to a bite or snap reaction. In a way, a growl can be considered a good thing, because without a proper warning, every person and animal nearby could be at serious risk of injury.
Body language is everything for dogs. When a dog is growling, it is essential to study their body language in order to understand the reasons behind their behaviour.
A dog may be growling out of fear if their body language looks something like this: tail tucked between their legs, body cowering, ears pinned back, and avoiding eye contact. Basically, this particular dog wants to get away from whatever is threatening him. Perhaps there is an alpha male asserting his dominance nearby. Maybe it’s a large human with a big winter jacket, hat, and sunglasses. Either way, this dog is fearful of his environment and is growling to voice his distress. This is definitely a submissive, fearful behaviour, and punishing with negative reinforcement is a big no no, as it will make them feel more threatened, possibly resulting in unpredictable aggressive actions.
On the flip side, a dog may be growling as a form of aggression. Perhaps this dog is of an alpha persuasion, thus has the need to establish his dominance over other dogs and people. Body language cues to pick up on include: big, tall, proud stance. Hyper-focused. Hackles along the back sticking way up. Tail held up high or wagging profusely; a wagging tail isn’t always a sign of a happy pooch, it is a sign of excitement. Excitement for a fight in this example. Also, dominant males will often single out certain dogs, so target fixation is definitely a behaviour to keep close watch on. As far as negative reinforcement goes, many dogs in this situation use negative corrective feedback as fuel to their fire, possibly making them even more aggressive.
The first step towards safely and positively correcting growling behaviours is to determine what is triggering these actions. Dogs can growl for any number of reasons, and they may not always be what you expect. The breed, temperament, past experiences, and current environment all shape their natural fear-reaction. For certain dogs, growling gives the appearance of being intimidating and dangerous, to mask their fear around potential predators.
Once we have a better understanding of what is causing a dog to growl, we can then take steps towards correcting the behaviour.
Why is my dog growling? Is she growling when I try to take away something of hers, like a toy or her food? This is called resource guarding. Is she growling at me when I try to get her off the bed or sofa?
No matter what the situation, if there is growling involved, your dog is trying to send a message. It is at this time when we need to think about what events or changes in environment led up to this point. After doing a little backtracking, the reasons behind their actions may become more apparent.
Once you have a basic understanding of the events leading up to the growl, think of the things you could have changed beforehand. Misdirection with a tasty treat or fun toy can be an effective way of positively changing the outcome of what may be a dangerous situation. It is essential to eliminate stressors in your dog’s environment, as that may eliminate the need for growling. Stress leads to aggression, and stress is cumulative in nature. No threats or stressors means no need to growl, right? With long-term consistency, hopefully.
Even when threats and stressors in the environment are reduced or eliminated, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re home free. For many dog owners, dealing with aggressive behaviours like growling can be an ongoing process. It is always beneficial to work alongside a qualified dog trainer experienced in positive canine behavioural modification. Together, trainer and owner will work together to develop the framework for long-term behaviour elimination.
Dealing with growling and other aggressive dog behaviours can be a serious ongoing problem, however you are not alone. It is actually quite common, and thankfully, there are many experts out there able to help walk you down the path to success.
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty-five years of experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour, and healthy pet lifestyles. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.ca.
