Aggression is the most common and most serious behavioural problem found in dogs around the world.
Celeste Kleyn, manager at the Springs SPCA, attributes aggression to bad breeding and how an animal is raised.
She says that adequate attention, stimulation and exercise is crucial for an animal to be well-balanced.
Read: Barking dogs are the owner’s responsibility
“Many people neglect to give their puppies enough attention and cannot then blame the animal if they don’t recognise you later on,” says Celeste.
She also points out that pet owners, and often their neighbours, tend to tease puppies.
“Eventually it makes them nasty,” says Celeste.
Although it is rare, there are behavioural modification techniques which can be used in an attempt to modify the behaviour, but only if the owner is committed.
There are many different types of aggression so it is important to try to identify which one your animals is exhibiting if you are serious about fixing the issue.
Some of the main types of aggression are territorial, protective, possessive, fear, defensive, social, frustration-elicited, redirected, pain-elicited, sex-related and predatory.
It is advised to get professional help at this stage.
Although Staffies, pit bull terriers and bull terriers are considered fighting breeds, Celeste emphasises that it all comes down to how you raise the dog.
The South African mastiff, more commonly known as the boerboel, is the most common breed surrendered to the SPCA due to aggression.
Celeste urges people to thoroughly research a breed to make sure it is the right fit for their family and lifestyle before making a commitment.
Jack Russells, for example, have a lot of energy so might not be the best fit for a timid person.
Chows and Shar Peis don’t typically like children.
WATCH: Guilty dogs caught by their owners
These are all things that people need to take into account when choosing a dog, says Celeste.
Celeste encourages people to talk to experts at their area veterinarian or local SPCA for more information.
