Dealing with Aggression

Although Huskies are generally known for their calm temperament, there may be instances where your Husky displays signs of aggression. This chapter provides comprehensive guidance on identifying the root cause of the behavior and implementing effective solutions.

Establishing Your Leadership

The ancestors of Huskies resided in a hierarchical society where a single mated pair held the position of alphas or top dogs. Nonetheless, in contemporary times, dogs coexist with humans, and their surroundings resemble a family unit rather than a pack. Dogs have an inherent inclination to perceive humans as leaders.

Tip

Here are some general tips to establish your leadership with your Husky:

» It is important to discourage nipping or biting, even during playtime.

» If you feel challenged, maintain a calm and assertive presence while making eye contact with your Husky. As the alpha, it is your prerogative to initiate staring and maintain control.

» Establish clear boundaries for playtime and ensure that you are in control of the toys.

» Avoid playing tug-of-war and, if it happens accidentally, make sure you win.

» Encourage your Husky to stay off the furniture, as dogs may equate height with dominance.

» Practice giving and taking away food from your Husky to establish your authority.

» Initiate petting on your own terms and avoid being nudged into it.

» Make sure your Husky obeys commands, such as "Sit," before feeding, petting, or playing. This will establish your role as the alpha and ensure that your Husky works for everything he receives.

» Praise your Husky for exceptional behavior on command, but avoid excessive praise as it may diminish the value of the reward.

» Consider neutering your male dog, as unaltered males are more likely to display aggressive behavior. For more information on this topic, refer to Chapter Focusing on Your Husky’s Health and Wellbeing.

Handling Aggression

Canine aggression is a common behavior among dogs, as it is their way of resolving conflicts. However, in a civilized society, such behavior is generally not acceptable, unless in the case of trained police dogs. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to discourage aggressive behavior in your Husky and teach them appropriate responses to unwanted attention. It is crucial to model nonaggressive behavior for your dog, and seek professional help from an animal behaviorist if necessary. If your dog has exhibited aggressive behavior and has bitten someone, it is imperative to seek professional assistance immediately.

Remember

It is important to recognize that any dog has the potential to bite if exposed to negative stimuli, such as abusive behavior or persistent teasing. By providing a safe and positive environment for your dog, you can prevent the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

However, it is important to consider the case of a dog who exhibits aggression despite never being teased. It is not uncommon for some dogs to display aggression despite never experiencing negative treatment, which may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Remember

It is important to control aggression in dogs as it can escalate if left unchecked. Each uncontrolled bite can lower the dog's bite threshold, making future incidents more likely. Therefore, it is crucial to address aggression in a timely and professional manner.

Remember

A canine is not a mere plaything nor a machine; rather, it is a multifaceted living organism. A solitary instance of unsuitable conduct, such as biting, could stem from a variety of underlying factors. It is essential to meticulously examine each contributing factor to determine the most effective approach for addressing the issue.

In the subsequent sections, I will provide guidance on the main types of aggression to help you identify them in your Husky and respond accordingly.

Relative dominance among dogs

Dogs exhibit varying degrees of dominance within a group, with one dog often emerging as the alpha. This behavior is typically observed in littermates at around 4 weeks of age and appears to be genetically determined. While the alpha dog may assert dominance over various aspects of life, such as being first to greet, eat, or exit the house, it is not uncommon for a dog to be dominant in one area and submissive in others. When introducing a new dog into a household, it is natural for the existing dogs to establish a hierarchy through squabbling. This behavior is typically self-limiting, with the first dog in the home usually becoming the alpha. However, if the new dog has a strong personality and is used to being dominant, the process may take longer, especially between dogs of the same sex.

Establishing relative dominance: Let your Huskies do it

It is recommended to allow your Huskies to establish their own dominance hierarchy. It is possible that older females may emerge as the dominant dogs. It is important to reinforce the hierarchy chosen by the dogs, while ensuring that all humans are given priority. It is suggested to feed, greet, and pet the dominant dog first, despite the perceived unfairness, as this approach has proven to be effective. When a new dog is introduced to the pack, the hierarchy will need to be re-established. Dogs have an innate desire to understand their place in the pack. Attempting to introduce democracy to the household may lead to confusion and ongoing conflict amongst the dogs. The submissive dog may attempt to assert dominance, while the dominant dog will work harder to maintain their position. It is best to allow the dogs to resolve the hierarchy amongst themselves.

Tip

In order to minimize stress among dogs in a household, it is recommended to provide equal access to food. It is suggested to maintain separate food dishes for each dog, as they typically share water without issue.

Instances of relative dominance occasionally result in peer aggression, where one dog may repeatedly attack other dogs. This form of aggression is relatively uncommon among Huskies, and when it does occur, it typically involves chasing or attacking smaller dogs (refer to the "Predatory aggression" section later in this chapter). Peer aggression is generally limited to intra-gender conflict, with males attacking males and females attacking females. If a fight has not yet broken out, you may intervene in peer aggression. Prior to a dog fight, scuffling, noise, and even boxing behavior may occur. Offering a walk or a treat may distract the dogs at this point and prevent an actual fight. Avoid yelling, as this may excite the potential combatants.

Handling a dog fight

If a dog fight breaks out, don’t step in between the dogs, even if you think you won’t be bitten. Dogs aren’t in a normal state of mind when they’re fighting. In most cases, no serious damage is being done, despite the shrieks and howls.

Tip

When attempting to break up a fight between dogs, it is important to take appropriate measures. In the case of fighting Siberians, it is recommended to use a chair or solid object to separate them, rather than cold water. Alternatively, throwing an object or smacking the instigator can be effective in gaining their attention. It is important to speak loudly and firmly, addressing the dogs by name so they recognize their owner's voice and cease fighting. If all else fails, squirting vinegar or lemon juice in their eyes may be necessary as a last resort.

It is recommended not to separate dogs after a fight, especially if they live together. Separating them will not solve the issue and they need to learn how to coexist. It is advised to work with both dogs together to encourage a peaceful relationship. However, if you need to leave them alone at home, it is important to separate them until their conflicts have been resolved.

Remember

It is recommended to work with spayed or neutered dogs for optimal results, particularly with male dogs. Neutered male dogs exhibit lower levels of fighting hormones, which reduces their aggressiveness. Additionally, neutered males emit less male scent, thereby reducing the likelihood of threatening other male dogs.

In instances where neighboring dogs engage in fights across a chain-link fence, it is recommended to consider erecting a solid barrier to conceal them from each other. Alternatively, introducing the dogs to each other in a large area while unleashed may prove beneficial in fostering a friendship between them over time.

Tip

When encountering another dog while walking your own, it is not uncommon for the two dogs to exchange intimidating eye contact. It is recommended to redirect your dog's attention to a different direction and continue walking. If this becomes a recurring issue with your Husky or proves difficult to manage, a head halter may be utilized to guide their gaze. Further information on head halters can be found in Chapter Outfitting Your New Husky.

Predatory aggression

Predatory aggression, characterized by stalking behavior, is a common trait in Huskies and is directed towards prey animals such as chickens, cats, and smaller dogs. It is imperative to ensure that a Siberian is never allowed to run loose. If your Husky happens to catch something, it is recommended that you do not allow him to keep it as this only reinforces his hunting instinct. Instead, remove the prey without comment (if possible, pry it out of his jaws).

If you have both a cat and a Siberian, it is important to take strong precautions. While some Siberians get along well with cats, most do not. At first, it is advisable to keep a short leash on the Husky to restrain him if anything bad happens. It is important to note that the prey drive is a deeply ingrained instinctual behavior that cannot be trained out of Huskies regardless of what you do. Therefore, it is best to keep a Husky and a cat apart unless they are under your direct supervision. Even Siberians who get along well with family cats will likely chase and try to kill strange cats.

If your Husky begins to show a little too much interest in the cat's movements, it is recommended that you toss a small pillow, slipper, or some light, nearby object at him. Try to hit him, but not too hard, and say "No kill!" in a displeased voice while giving him something else to do. You may also want to take the cat on your lap and pet him to show your dog that the cat is part of the family.

Closely related to predatory aggression is the chase response. In a simple chase response, pursuit is not carried out to its logical conclusion, which is to capture and kill the prey animal. The dog may only mouth or play with the captured prey. Cats and other small animals instinctively run when being chased, thus exciting the Husky further and encouraging his chase-response instinct.

Aggression toward people

Without doubt, aggression toward human beings is the most serious problem a dog owner can face. It’s also a really serious and frightening event for the target of the aggression.

Warning

The incidence of animal aggression towards humans is a concerning issue nationwide. Daily, approximately 1,000 Americans require emergency care due to severe bites, with over 14,000 individuals hospitalized annually. In adults, males, often mail carriers or deliverymen, are the most frequent victims of dog bites, with male owners being responsible for most biting dogs.

Siberian Huskies are known for their friendly nature towards people. However, it is important to note that unfortunate incidents can occur. According to statistics between 2005 and 2017, 13 people were killed by Huskies, making them the seventh most lethal breed. Although this accounts for only 3 percent of total victims, it is still a concerning number. The majority of victims were infants under 11 months old, and the remaining were under the age of 5. It is essential to supervise all dogs around children, as babies and toddlers may trigger the prey drive in some dogs. It is important to note that alleged attacks are often due to human error rather than the dog's nature. This article will further discuss the reasons behind such incidents.

» Misidentification: It is important to note that many dogs involved in biting incidents are often misidentified as Siberian Huskies when in fact they may be Malamutes, German Shepherds, or crossbreeds, including wolf-Husky hybrids. It is common for people to have difficulty distinguishing between breeds, and as a result, Huskies may be unfairly blamed for incidents they did not cause.

» The phenomenal rise of popularity of the Siberian Husky: Over the years, the Siberian Husky has experienced a significant increase in popularity, currently ranking 14th in number of AKC registrations. However, as the number of dogs increases, so does the likelihood of incidents involving bites. Unfortunately, the rise in demand for Siberians has resulted in an increase in unscrupulous breeders who do not prioritize temperament when selecting breeding stock. Additionally, the breed's growing popularity has attracted individuals who may not be suitable owners. It is important to note that dogs often reflect the behavior of their owners, and some people mistakenly believe that the Siberian should behave like a wolf. This misconception, combined with mistreatment, can lead to aggressive behavior in the dog.

» Lack of socialization: It is important to note that many dog bites can occur as a result of neglectful behavior from their owners, such as leaving them tied up outside without adequate human interaction. Specifically, Siberian Huskies are a breed that thrives on companionship and affection from humans, and when they lack it, they may exhibit more primitive behaviors. While aggression is a common cause of dog bites, other factors such as fear, pain, and overstimulated play-nipping can also contribute. It is crucial to understand the root cause of your dog's behavior in order to address the issue effectively. In some cases, seeking professional help may be necessary.

Warning

Several insurance companies have specific policies regarding homeowner's insurance for certain breeds of dogs. One well-known insurance company, for instance, does not offer coverage to owners of Siberian Huskies or several other breeds, including Alaskan Malamutes, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bullmastiffs, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, or Rottweilers. In addition, it is important to note that some insurance companies may also refuse to provide coverage to homeowners whose dogs have a history of biting.

Understanding Types of Aggressive Behavior

It is important to note that not all forms of aggression in dogs are the same. In order to effectively address this issue, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause of your dog's behavior. Just like humans, a dog's behavior can be influenced by various factors such as physical, emotional, and environmental factors. It is important to carefully consider each of these factors in order to properly address the issue at hand.

Fear-induced aggression

Fear-induced aggression is a common behavior observed in animals when they encounter new and unfamiliar situations. This behavior is particularly common in rescue dogs who may have experienced abuse in their past. It is important to note that fearful dogs may have a critical area that, if threatened, may trigger a bite response. For instance, a human head or hand close to the dog's face can be perceived as a threat by a fearful dog. Fortunately, it is possible to alleviate this behavior by gradually desensitizing the dog to the triggering situation. With time and a supportive home environment, fearfulness can be overcome. It is crucial to avoid overprotecting the dog as this may hinder its ability to adapt and cope with new situations.

Tip

It is recommended to avoid cornering a dog that has a tendency to bite out of fear. Instead, it is advisable to allow the dog to approach you on their own terms, and offer praise or treats as positive reinforcement. If the dog chooses to walk away, it is important not to pursue them. After a period of time, approaching the dog with a treat can help with the desensitization process. It is important to remain calm and not make a big deal out of the interaction, as the dog needs to learn that there is no reason to fear you.

It is not uncommon for dogs to exhibit fear or anxiety towards certain types of people, such as males, individuals in uniform, or those of a different race than their owner. However, it is important to note that in the case of the latter, dogs may be picking up on cues from their owners, highlighting the need for self-reflection and potential attitude adjustments. To address this behavior, it is recommended to have these individuals interact with the dog in a positive manner, such as through feeding and petting, to help the dog overcome their fear and learn that there is no reason to be afraid.

Remember

Fear-biting can cause significant harm, just like any other form of biting. It is concerning that dogs exhibiting fear-biting behavior, if left uncorrected, may escalate to biting whenever they feel uneasy.

Territorial aggression

Canine territorial aggression is a common behavior that stems from a dog's innate instinct to protect its territory. It is noteworthy that some dogs who do not exhibit territorial behavior in an open area may do so when a fence is erected around their property. It is also observed that the larger the dog's territory, the less likely it is to display aggression. Although Siberian dogs are generally not prone to territorial aggression, it may develop if the dog perceives that its owner is rewarding it for its guarding behavior.

Food or toy guarding

Guarding can be viewed as a type of territorial aggression, albeit focused on objects rather than physical space. This behavior is observed more frequently in Siberian dogs than territorial aggression. It is important to note that guarding of food or toys can pose a risk to both the dog and those around them. As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to ensure that your dog relinquishes any toy or food upon request. While your dog may resist, it is imperative to discourage any growling or aggressive behavior.

Tip

When observing this type of behavior in your dog, it is important to reinforce your alpha position. To do so, ensure that your dog watches as you pour their food into their dish. In cases where dominant behavior has been displayed, it is recommended to pretend to eat some of the food yourself before allowing your dog to approach. Require your dog to sit or stand away from the bowl and only permit them to approach once given the signal that it is acceptable to do so.

Tip

When dealing with a dog that exhibits resource guarding behavior, it can be helpful to provide an empty bowl and add food to it while the dog is eating. This approach can demonstrate to the dog that you do not pose a threat to take away their food. While it is important to be able to take items from your dog, with a resource-guarding dog, it may be more beneficial to provide additional food rather than removing it, even if only for a brief period of time. It is recommended to prioritize this technique when working on addressing your dog's resource guarding behavior.

To encourage your pet to willingly give up toys or food, consider implementing a trading system. Offer a preferred treat in exchange for the item you wish to take away. Over time, your pet will learn to accept this arrangement and be more willing to relinquish possessions. As your pet becomes more comfortable with the process, gradually reduce the frequency of rewards. It is important to start with items your pet has little interest in and gradually work up to more valuable possessions such as their food bowl or favorite toy. Take your time and be patient as your pet learns this new behavior.

Warning

If not addressed, food and toy guarding can escalate as the dog's definition of these items expands. In certain cases, a dog may permit its perceived master to remove toys but not other family members. Such behavior requires correction. It is essential for all individuals within a household to establish alpha status over family dogs.

Pain-induced aggression

Dogs that are injured and experiencing pain-induced aggression may exhibit defensive behavior by attacking what they perceive to be the cause of their discomfort. In this situation, a bite is a form of self-defense.

I once encountered a dog that had been hit by a car and needed immediate removal from the accident site. During the process, the dog bit me. However, it was understandable given the circumstances.

When handling an injured dog, it is advisable to use a leash to muzzle the dog to prevent any potential aggression resulting from the pain.

In some cases, aggression may be due to underlying medical conditions such as tumors or skeletal misalignments.

Tip

If a canine member of your family displays unexpected aggression during handling or petting, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a veterinarian. This behavior may indicate an underlying injury or ailment that requires a thorough examination.

Tip

It is important to note that a dog's face, ears, and rectal area are highly sensitive to pain. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise extra caution when handling or treating these areas.

Irritable aggression

Irritable aggression in dogs can be a concerning issue, particularly for households with children. It may be a result of pain or simply the temperament of an older or grumpy dog. To manage this behavior, it is generally recommended to leave the dog alone. However, if the aggression is severe or directed towards children, seeking advice from a veterinarian is necessary. Tranquilizers or even rehoming the dog may be options to consider. If an adult dog exhibits sudden aggression, it is important to address the issue with a veterinarian to determine if there may be underlying physiological causes. Treating the root cause of the behavior is key to resolving the problem.

Maternal protectiveness

Maternal protectiveness is a behavior that is commonly observed in animals and is often hormonally driven. While it may be considered a form of aggression, it is understandable that a mother would want to protect her offspring. However, it is important to note that this behavior should not be directed towards human family members. Additionally, similar behavior may be observed in cases of false pregnancy in female dogs. If sudden protective or aggressive behavior is observed in a female dog, it may be due to the belief that she has young to protect.

Tip

Female dogs that are prone to false pregnancies should undergo spaying. This not only helps address their behavioral issues but also reduces the risk of pyometra, a serious uterine infection.

Genetically based aggression

Some dogs may exhibit aggression from birth, potentially due to a genetic anomaly resulting from inbreeding in Siberians. This type of aggression may be noticeable in young puppies through deep growling and an uncontrolled biting response, typically by the age of four months. It is important to note that this form of aggression cannot be trained out of a dog, as it is a dominant trait. However, it is possible to breed out this trait by pairing non-aggressive dogs together, effectively eliminating the dominant gene from the strain.

Warning

It is important to note that aggressive tendencies can be hereditary. If a puppy's parents have displayed aggressive behavior, there is a higher likelihood that the puppy may exhibit similar behavior. Therefore, it is advisable to gather as much information as possible about the dog's lineage.

Environmental aggression

Environmental toxins may contribute to instances of aggression in dogs, and in some cases, dogs may exhibit an allergic response to vaccines that can lead to aggression. If all other potential causes of a dog's aggression have been ruled out, it may be worthwhile to explore the possibility of environmental aggression and discuss this with a veterinarian.

Hiring a Professional

Most dog owners and even most regular obedience trainers aren’t equipped to work with an aggressive dog. If your Husky is overly aggressive and you’ve tried correcting the behavior with no luck, then you need to take your Husky to a specialized behavioral therapist qualified to work with aggressive dogs. And even then, you’re taking your chances. A dominant-aggressive dog always wants to be dominant, and he’ll continually test his limits. He may regard any easing up of restrictions as an act of concession on your part.

Remember

Certain types of aggressive behavior can be effectively treated with medication, including antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, hormonal therapy, and antianxiety drugs. Among these, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Prozac and Zoloft, have proven to be particularly effective when administered in appropriate dosages for canines. By increasing serotonin levels in the brain, SSRIs have a strong anti-aggressive effect on dogs. However, it is important to note that medication should be used in conjunction with behavior modification training and regular exercise. Adequate exercise can help to prevent aggressive behavior by tiring out the dog.

Avoiding Dog Bites

It is recommended to prioritize prevention in order to minimize the likelihood of dog bites. While it is impossible to guarantee that a dog will never bite, proactive measures can greatly reduce the risk. Taking precautions is essential in preventing biting behavior.

» Approach a strange dog slowly, even if he appears friendly. When meeting and greeting a dog, it is important to approach in a non-threatening manner. This can be achieved by extending your hand with your palm facing up, allowing the dog to sniff and acknowledge you. However, if the dog appears unfriendly, it is best to keep your hands to your sides and avoid approaching. In the event of an attack, it is recommended to curl up into a tight ball and remain as still as possible, rather than attempting to run away which may excite the dog's chase instinct.

» Don’t disturb a sleeping dog. It is important to remember that unexpected physical contact with a sleeping dog can cause them to react negatively. Therefore, it is best to let sleeping dogs lie. The same applies to dogs who are eating; it is important not to disturb them. While it is acceptable to work with your dog while they are eating, suddenly taking away their food can cause even a well-behaved dog to become irritable. It is important to teach these tips to children as well. Additionally, it is recommended to monitor your Husky around your children's friends, as their behavior may not be as well-behaved as your child's.

Tip

In the event that your dog bites a person, it is advised to avoid physically punishing the animal. This approach can exacerbate the fear and other contributing factors that led to the bite, ultimately increasing the likelihood of future incidents - particularly if the bite resulted in breaking the skin. To address this issue effectively, professional training is recommended.