Historically, behaviors such as barking, growling, lunging, and snarling in dogs were broadly categorized under 'aggression,' a term that often led to owners feeling unnecessary shame. The introduction of 'reactivity' sought to offer a more neutral descriptor for these actions, moving away from the judgment associated with aggression. While aggression typically implies an intent to cause harm, reactivity refers to an exaggerated response to a stimulus. It is crucial to focus on addressing specific behaviors rather than getting bogged down by labels, as training approaches for both reactive and aggressive dogs often involve similar skills and knowledge.
Reactivity in dogs describes an intense or disproportionate response to a particular trigger. This intensity is often subjective, varying based on individual perceptions of what constitutes a 'normal' canine reaction. For instance, a dog displaying extreme enthusiasm, such as excessive barking and jumping when greeting someone, might be considered reactive. Similarly, a dog that shows an intense negative emotional response, like uncontrolled barking and lunging at other animals or loud noises, could also be labeled reactive. The challenge lies in determining the threshold of 'excessive' behavior, which is influenced by numerous factors unique to each situation and dog.
In contrast, aggression is traditionally defined by an intention to inflict harm upon another living being. However, this definition is contentious among experts, as ascertaining a dog's true intention is inherently difficult. Some prefer to describe aggressive behaviors purely based on observable actions, without attributing intent. This perspective suggests that focusing on what a dog does, rather than labeling its underlying motivations, can be more constructive. Nevertheless, the common understanding of aggression often encompasses any behavior that suggests potential harm from a dog's teeth, including barks, growls, lunges, nips, and bites.
Aggression is merely one facet of agonistic behavior, a broader category that includes all social interactions related to contests or conflicts. This encompasses threats, displays, appeasement, and reconciliation. Interestingly, some behaviors historically lumped into aggression, like certain threats and displays, actually serve to de-escalate tension and prevent physical altercations. This highlights the complexity of canine communication, where actions often perceived as aggressive might, in fact, be attempts to avoid a fight.
Ultimately, precisely defining dog behavior remains a complex undertaking. The terms 'reactivity' and 'aggression' are not mutually exclusive; a dog can exhibit characteristics of both. Reactivity points to heightened emotional states, while aggression speaks to potential injury. Many find it difficult to differentiate between the two, given their overlapping nature. It's often more beneficial to describe the specific actions a dog performs, such as 'barks and lunges at unfamiliar people on a leash,' rather than using broad labels. This approach minimizes confusion and allows for a more targeted understanding and management of canine behavior.