![]() For example, a dog who is frightened about being in the consultation area might also be frustrated that they are contained, restrained on a lead, and unable to escape to a position of perceived safety.Īnother common example is a dog who would really like to eat the treat offered to them but is at the same time worried about approaching the person who is offering it. Especially if it is someone unfamiliar and in an unusual or worrying place, such as the veterinary team in the clinic. It is important to remember that several emotions may be expressed, to varying degrees, at the same time. ![]() The aggressive behaviour of lunging, growling, and snapping is performed without any emotional component, but instead as a learned and now habitual response within this setting. The dog now has a behavioural strategy that can give them confidence when vets approach in the consult room. The aggressive response may well have been emotionally driven initially, but over time the emotional component of the behaviour has reduced until what manifests is a learnt habitual response to the stimulus.įor example, a dog who initially lunged, growled, and then snapped when touched by a vet in the consult room, due to pain, might learn that this works well to keep vets safely at bay. It is possible, however, for aggressive behaviour to become a habitual response to a stimulus if the response results in a predictable outcome for the dog. This can lead to an individual viewing aggression as a successful behavioural strategy for times when they feel threatened.Īggressive behaviour is usually functional and serves a purpose for the individual. ![]() The pain associated with the restraint is alleviated when the person holding them lets go. ![]() For example, an arthritic dog being held tightly or in an uncomfortable position for a blood sample might respond aggressively, perhaps growling or even snapping.
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