Unraveling the mysteries of pet behavior is the key to harmonious living and the foundation of an unbreakable bond. Exploring the nuances of their personalities, especially when it comes to dealing with aggression and reactivity, proves to be important in ensuring the well-being of the animals and the entire family.
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“In fact, there is no difference between the two terms. What happens is that reactivity is an exaggerated reaction to stimuli to which the pet would not normally react, with aggression being one of those reactions, which can start as discomfort and escalate to a more aggressive reaction. Some people think that aggression only means biting, but it shows its effects much earlier. These behaviors can arise for various reasons, and understanding their triggers allows us to address the issues in a solution-oriented way,” explains Marina Meireles, behavioral veterinarian at Nouvet, a high-level veterinary center in São Paulo.
Fear, stress, pain, or even lack of adequate socialization can trigger such behavior in pets. Observing warning signs such as growling, tense body posture, ears flattened, excessive barking, jumping, or attempts to flee helps to understand the reasons behind this behavior. Understanding the situations that trigger these reactions allows for creating a plan to find solutions and create a safer and more comfortable environment for the pet, reducing the risk of incidents.
The veterinarian emphasizes that dealing with aggressive reactions requires patience and a lot of observation. A crucial first step when noticing such behaviors is to take the pet to the veterinarian for a differential diagnosis of possible clinical causes. Often, the behaviors of the animals are due to a clinical alteration, which can cause physical pain or hormonal changes. Only after this evaluation is it recommended to take the pet to a dog trainer.
Specialized intervention ensures a safe and harmonious environment for the dog and its caregivers. But besides that, creating an enriching environment also supports the emotional stability of the pets. This includes providing appropriate stimuli such as interactive toys, cognitive challenges, and physical activities that meet the specific needs of each breed.
The emotional balance of pets also depends on opportunities for socialization. “Positive interaction with other pets, humans, and new environments contributes to the development of social skills and stress reduction. Regular walks, encounters with other animals, and participation in social activities promote the strengthening of emotional bonds with their caregivers. By investing time and effort in understanding the individual needs of each animal, the owner can build deeper bonds and create a healthy and harmonious relationship with their best friend,” Marina concludes.
