Male dog dominance aggression comes in many levels but sometimes the most submission of dogs can become an aggressive dominant. It is important to note the situation surrounding the aggression as well as whether or not the male dog is altered. As one dog owner finds out, the most loving of Labrador Retrievers can change and it is the responsible dog owner that seeks assistance in creating a more balanced and secure dog.
Question:
Hi, I have a 3yr old unneutered chocolate labrador, who is loving and has no aggressive behaviour, however the last couple of weeks whilst on the park off lead he suddenly seems to be getting into fights. This week he ended up at the vets where a dog had bitten him. Please could you advise, would neutering him help? He goes over to dogs and in the past been friendly but any dogs that he doesn’t know he ends up in trouble. Help!!! Thanks
Answer:
The reason for the behavior change can be anything from seasonal to age or even the fact that there may be a female in heat at the dog park that he is fighting over. Since he is not altered, it is definitely recommended that you neuter him if you have no plans on breeding him in the future.
By altering a male dog, you are removing the main organ that produces testosterone and therefore aggression. Although doing so has proven to be very helpful in curbing dog aggression, it does not guarantee that there will not be other forms of aggression in the future. However, it will decrease the more aggressive behavior problems seen in unneutered male dogs.
Another positive side effect from neutering your dog is that it decreases the chances of male reproductive illnesses and increases the chance of a long and healthy life.
Please speak to your veterinarian further to answer any questions you have about altering your beautiful chocolate Labrador Retriever.
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Neutering will help, no doubt, but maintaining your “alpha” role even while at the dog park can help avoid these altercations. Execute commands to keep him in check.
Maintaining an alpha role is important in any healthy relationship with a dog. Just because dogs are allowed to run free at a park, does not give them permission to become aggressive.
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