Agressividade
Frequently asked questions about aggression
Can a dog that is aggressive with other dogs be cured? In most cases, yes — it improves very significantly. “Cure” is the wrong word: we talk about rehabilitation and management. The goal is a dog that passes other dogs calmly and an owner who knows how to handle the situation with confidence. How long does it take to rehabilitate a reactive dog? It depends on the cause, the intensity and above all the owner's consistency. Many cases show clear improvement within a few weeks; full consolidation can take a few months of continued work. Can I solve this on my own? Mild cases, yes, with the right information. But fear-based reactivity or cases with a bite history need professional reading of body language and distance management — it is easy to make things worse without meaning to. Does neutering solve aggression? I never recommend it before a 360º Assessment. Neutering can help in specific cases, but it can also make things worse — for example in a fearful dog, less testosterone can mean less confidence and more reactivity. Reactivity is not solved with surgery. My dog only reacts on the leash. Why? That is the most common form of reactivity: the dog feels trapped, with no option to flee or to approach naturally, and frustration or fear intensify. Off leash, many of these dogs behave completely differently, because the owner no longer influences the interaction.
Need help with your dog? André Alves works at home across Greater Lisbon and online worldwide.