Dogs are supposed to be “man’s best friend,” but not all of them are well-socialized or trained. This can result in reactivity, which can range between intense playfulness, excitement, or aggression depending on the trigger. Knowing how to identify signs of a reactive dog before engaging with one is one proactive way you can help protect yourself.
Keep reading to learn what a reactive dog is, how to identify one, why only some dogs will react strongly to external stimuli, and what actions you should take if you do happen to find yourself in the company of an unpredictable pup.
What Is a Reactive Dog?
A reactive dog is one that reacts unpredictably or overreacts to specific situations or external stimuli. According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, most reactive dogs are fearful instead of aggressive. However, this doesn’t mean that a reactive dog won’t attack. If a fearful dog becomes cornered or encounters something unexpected in their environment, this can easily turn into aggression as the dog’s need to protect itself arises.
Why Are Some Dogs Reactive and Others Aren’t?
Most commonly, reactivity in a dog is caused by one of four things:
Genetics
Even with the right training, environment, and support, some dogs are still nervous or frightened around certain stimuli. While proper training is crucial, dogs also come with instinctive behaviors that are difficult and sometimes impossible to weed out. For example, dogs with a soft, sweet personality may be more fearful and therefore reactive in a challenging environment like the big city with heavy traffic all around.
Lack of Training
Today’s dogs are bred to work and play alongside humans. They enjoy the mental stimulation and bond created by training that sets expectations and rewards correct behaviors. They look to their owners for direction in situations where they are uncertain and need to have training they can confidently fall back on.
Poor Socialization
Although genetics and training play a role, dogs who have not been adequately socialized are significantly more likely to be scared of new or stressful experiences. Early socialization as a puppy is key to help your dog get used to other people, other dogs, small animals like birds and squirrels, traffic, and other stimuli they are likely going to encounter throughout their life.
Prior Negative Experiences
Dogs that have had negative experiences with previous owners or other animals are less likely to be calm, cool, and collected when faced with similar circumstances. For example, if a small dog is attacked, they are likely to become reactive around larger dogs in the future.
How to Identify a Reactive Dog
Understanding and being able to spot the signs of potential reactive behavior is a crucial initial step in mitigating any dangerous encounters. A reactive dog may exhibit one or more of the following behaviors when in an anxious or reactive state:
- Hiding
- Lunging
- Growling
- Stress panting
- Frantic barking
- Licking their lips
- Tucking their tail
- Baring their teeth
- Attempting to escape
- Prolonged eye contact
- Avoiding eye contact
- Loss of bladder control
Coincidentally (or not), these are the same indicators that a dog tends to show when they are about to attack.
What to Do If You Come Into Contact With a Reactive Dog
If you encounter a dog that you think may be reactive, it’s in your best interests to avoid it, especially if it is a stray or is unleashed. If the dog approaches you, stay as calm as possible and avoid looking the animal in the eye. Avoid making any sudden movements or loud sounds that could startle the dog and push it into a reaction.
The best thing to do is walk away slowly without turning your back completely to the dog. You want to be able to see if it lunges so you can protect yourself but appearing disinterested and as though you are looking and moving away can deter a dog that is in a reactive state from attacking.
When to Contact an Experienced Massachusetts Dog Bite Lawyer for Help
If you or someone you care about were attacked by a dog, you have the option to seek financial compensation from the animal’s owner for the damage they cause. Regardless of whether the dog was reactive or not, Massachusetts dog bite laws state that owners have complete responsibility over the actions of their animal. Even if the dog has never been violent, owners can be held financially liable for any damages the dog causes.
Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC today to learn more or book a free case consultation by calling (978) 744-8000 or toll-free at (855) 693-9084.
