Due to their quirky personality and size, many people wonder: “Are huskies aggressive?” According to the breed standard: “The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly and gentle… he does not exhibit the possessive traits of a guard dog, nor is he excessively suspicious of strangers or aggressive towards other dogs.”
But just because huskies are not an aggressive breed does not mean that they won’t become aggressive under the right conditions. We will guide you through the types of aggression, how to deal with an aggressive husky, and how to recognize the warning signs of impending aggression before it begins.
Different Types of Aggression
Because there are different types of aggression, any dog, any breed, can be aggressive. Dominant aggression, predatory aggression, and territorial aggression are the most common forms of aggression in dogs.
While dogs can exhibit only one form of aggression at a time, they can also react with more than one type at once. Recognizing the signs of each form of aggression in your husky is crucial in correcting their behavior. Let’s take a closer look at the different forms of aggression in dogs.
Dominant Aggression
Dominant aggression occurs when dogs try to control their environment, including the people and other animals in it. Common signs of dominant aggression include climbing on people and other animals, refusing to obey commands, and more aggressive displays like growling, snapping, and biting. Dogs that feel they have power over people and other animals will exert their influence to maintain a sense of control.
Early signs of dominant aggression often manifest when your dog is a puppy. Do not excuse their behavior when they snarl or growl when you reach for their food bowl or favorite toy. By correcting this behavior at a young age, you prevent it from worsening as your dog gets older. Signs to watch for include a stiff posture, growling, a fixed and unblinking stare, an upright tail, and looming over other animals.
To correct dominant aggression, you must act as the pack leader. Do not give your dog the opportunity to exert control over you. Speak firmly, but without aggression in your tone. A muzzle helps minimize the risk of biting, and professional help from obedience training may be necessary.
Predatory Aggression
Unfortunately, predatory aggression is a common problem for many working dogs. Because they have a strong prey drive, huskies may see smaller animals – including small children – moving as a source of prey. For this reason, we recommend keeping your husky within your direct line of sight around children and other animals. If you have cats, small dogs, or small pets, a husky may not be the best breed for you.
Signs to watch for include a fixed, direct gaze, excessive licking of the lips, the body tensing in preparation for the lunge, and an upright tail. If your dog attacks a group of animals, children, or even adults, this is a clear sign that he is reacting to his instinctual prey drive. This behavior must be curtailed immediately so your dog learns that you do not tolerate these actions.
Because the prey drive is instinctual, training your husky not to exhibit aggressive behavior requires a firm approach and consistency. Every member of your family must be strict with your dog. In most cases, a sharp “no” is sufficient, but if the behavior persists, you may need the help of a professional dog behavior therapist.
Territorial Aggression
Many dogs fiercely protect what they consider their property, including their home, their yard, and their family. While some dogs welcome guests, others react aggressively to a perceived invasion of their personal space. The behavior of territorial aggression often resembles that of dominant aggression and can include growling, snapping, and biting.
It is important here to convince your dog that you are the boss of the house, as dogs are less likely to become territorial when they consider their space to be your territory rather than their own. Since dogs respond to non-verbal signals, they will feel it if you are anxious or afraid of strangers.
You should display calm leadership when interacting with strangers near your dog. Allow strangers to pet your husky or take him out in a dog park, so he becomes accustomed to strangers. Introducing your dog to the mailman or delivery person is a fantastic way to teach your dog that he does not need to protect your home from every stranger he sees.
Closing Thoughts
Huskies are very loyal, intelligent, and affectionate dogs. Generally, huskies are not prone to aggression. However, aggressive behavior is possible in all dogs and this behavior should be corrected at the first sign of dominance, territoriality, or prey chasing. Remain steadfast with your dog, correct his behavior each time it occurs, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need it.
Aggressive dogs are not bad dogs; they are dogs that need good training. As their owner, you can provide that.
Read here some reviews from owners with a Husky.
