Territorial aggression in dogs

Dogs naturally want to protect their home, their family and things that matter to them, such as their toys. When this turns into barking, lunging or biting at people or animals who come near, it is known as territorial aggression. It needs to be taken seriously.

What territorial aggression looks like

Territorial aggression usually happens within the boundaries of where the dog lives, such as the house and garden. Dogs may charge at the fence, run up and down, bark aggressively and, in some cases, bite whatever or whoever comes into their space.

Confident territorial aggression

Territorial dogs are often described as "dominant", but most are actually anxious or insecure and are trying to make a perceived threat go away.

Fearful territorial aggression

Some dogs, including many herding breeds, show territorial behaviour driven mainly by fear. They bark because they feel anxious, insecure and threatened.

Warning signs

• Lifting the upper lip
• Aggressive barking
• Lunging forward
• Snapping
• Biting
• Going into a frenzy when the doorbell rings
• Reacting aggressively when someone approaches their space

Common causes

A dog that has "won" by guarding something in the past, for example by driving another dog away from its food, may repeat the behaviour. Other causes include:

• poor socialisation as a puppy
• their environment
• genetic factors
• underlying medical issues
• inbreeding

Getting help

Start with a vet check to rule out pain or illness, then ask for a referral to a qualified behaviourist, for example one registered with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). Avoid punishment-based methods, which can make aggression worse.

Training and behaviour work are not regulated in the UK, so check the qualifications of anyone you work with.

What a behaviourist can do

A behaviourist will help you understand what triggers your dog's reactions. Triggers can include people, other dogs or other things that come near your dog's territory.

They will then work with you on:

• gradually getting your dog used to its triggers, so they cause less of a reaction
• a manageable plan to build calmer, more positive behaviour
• helping your dog listen and respond to you, so they can control their impulses

They will teach you skills to manage situations safely. They will help stop your dog patrolling fences and boundaries. Don't leave a territorial dog alone in the garden for long periods, as this can make the behaviour worse.

They can also help you practise calmer meetings with people and dogs in public, and give your regular visitors tips on how to arrive so that your dog stays calm.

Why acting early matters

Without help, territorial aggression is likely to get worse. A dog that harms another animal or a person is a danger and a serious responsibility for its owner.

In England and Wales it is a criminal offence under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 for a dog to be dangerously out of control anywhere, including in your own home and garden.

Getting the right help early also matters for your dog. A dog that feels safe and relaxed is a happier dog.