Introduction: When a Walk Turns Stressful
It usually starts the same way.
You’re enjoying a calm walk, minding your own business, when suddenly your dog spots another dog and everything changes.
Growling.
Pulling.
Stiff body.
Barking that feels louder than it should.
It’s embarrassing, stressful, and sometimes even scary.
But here’s the truth most people don’t realize:
Dog-to-dog aggression is common and it’s usually rooted in fear, not dominance.
If your dog reacts aggressively toward other dogs, you’re not alone, and you’re not a bad dog parent.
Let’s break down the “why” behind the behavior and how to help your dog feel calm and confident again.
Why Dogs Get Aggressive with Other Dogs
Aggression rarely comes from nowhere. It’s almost always communication — a dog’s way of saying,
“I’m uncomfortable. Give me space.”
Here are the most common causes:
1. Fear or Anxiety (The #1 Reason)
A dog who doesn’t feel safe will often react before the other dog has a chance to get close.
This is called reactive aggression, and it’s especially common if:
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your dog had a bad encounter before
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they missed early socialization
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they get overwhelmed in new environments
Fearful dogs bark and lunge because it makes the scary thing go away — and it works, so they repeat it.
2. Poor Early Socialization
Dogs who didn’t meet a variety of dogs between 8–16 weeks may grow up unsure how to communicate calmly.
They’re not “bad dogs.”
They just missed the social toolbox other dogs naturally develop.
3. Leash Reactivity
A leash removes your dog’s options:
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they can’t run
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they can’t sniff the other dog
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they can’t choose space
That trapped feeling creates frustration, which comes out as barking, pulling, or snapping.
Many dogs who are aggressive on leash are totally fine off leash.
4. Pain or Medical Issues
Dogs who suddenly start acting aggressive may actually be:
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sore
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arthritic
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injured
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experiencing dental pain
Pain lowers tolerance just like it does for humans.
5. Territorial or Protective Instincts
Some dogs feel responsible for guarding:
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you
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their home
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their yard
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their RV or van (common for travelers!)
This isn’t dominance, it's instinctive protection.
6. Bad Past Experiences
A single attack, rough play session, or frightening encounter can create a long-lasting fear response.
Dogs remember and react.
How to Tell If It’s Real Aggression or Just Overstimulation
Sometimes what looks like aggression is actually:
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excitement
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frustration
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overwhelm
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too much energy
Signs of real aggression include:
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stiff body
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hard staring
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raised hackles
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low growl
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lip curling
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snapping
Signs of overstimulation look like:
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spinning
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whining
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frantic pulling
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high-pitched barking
Knowing the difference changes everything about how you respond.
How to Help Your Dog Behave Better Around Other Dogs
The good news?
Most dog-to-dog aggression can be improved with the right techniques and patience.
1. Create Distance First
The more space your dog has, the more control they feel.
Cross the street if needed.
Move behind a car.
Turn around calmly.
Space is the fastest way to lower reactivity.
2. Reward Calm Behavior
Every time your dog looks at another dog without reacting, reward with:
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treats
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praise
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distance
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play
You’re teaching your dog:
“Seeing another dog = something good happens.”
3. Avoid On-Leash Greetings
Dog face-to-face greetings on a tight leash cause tension.
Skip them completely until your dog has more confidence.
4. Use a Harness Instead of a Collar
It reduces the feeling of pressure, which reduces reactivity.
5. Practice Controlled Exposure
Work with a calm, neutral dog at a safe distance.
Let your dog see the other dog, relax, then slowly decrease distance week by week.
This is called desensitization and counterconditioning and it works.
6. Exercise Before Walks
A tired dog reacts less.
Play fetch, tug, or sniff games before walking in busy areas.
7. Give Clear, Calm Cues
Dogs pick up on your energy.
If you panic, they will too.
Speak softly.
Move slowly.
Reward quickly.
8. Don’t Punish Growling
Growling is communication not misbehavior.
Punishing growls teaches dogs to skip the warning and go straight to snapping.
9. Consult a Trainer for Serious Cases
If your dog has bitten another dog or you feel unsafe, get a certified trainer who uses force-free, science-based methods.
Avoid anyone who talks about “dominance,” “alpha,” or punishment tools.
When You Should Worry
Take your dog to a vet or trainer if:
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aggression suddenly appears
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it escalates quickly
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your dog snaps with no warning
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you can’t safely walk your dog
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it happens with familiar dogs
Most problems are treatable but early help is best.
Also Read: How to stop food aggression in dogs
Conclusion: Your Dog Isn’t “Bad” They’re Communicating
Dog-to-dog aggression can feel overwhelming, embarrassing, or even scary.
But at its core, aggression is a signal, not a personality trait.
Your dog is saying:
“I don’t feel safe.”
With patience, training, and the right approach, almost every dog can learn to stay calm, build confidence, and feel secure around other dogs.
And that makes walks enjoyable for both of you again.
Disclaimer
This blog provides general educational information about dog behavior. It should not replace advice from a certified dog trainer, behaviorist, or veterinarian. Always consult professionals if your dog shows signs of aggression or if safety is a concern. MyWaggle is not responsible for actions taken based on this content.