Collie Aggression

One of the reasons that many people have come to love the Collie breed is because they are not an aggressive dog towards people, animals or other dogs.

This is not to say that Collie aggression cannot occur and in fact, in different situations, Collies can be just as aggressive as any other breed.

Most people want their Collie to be an effective watch dog should the need arise, so natural protective instincts of the breed are important. Even the most well trained and socialized Collie has a very deep, loud bark and be significant deterrents to those strangers that you don’t want around your property and home.

Genetics Versus Training

As with any breed of dog, genetic factors with regards to aggression and personality play a big role in the temperament of an individual Collie. Genuine, caring and reputable breeders are very responsible when setting up breeding programs and actively work to breed out any unwanted or uncharacteristic Collie aggression.

Unfortunately there are puppy mills, backyard breeders and those just in it for a quick buck that don’t take the same type of care. Nervous and anxious male and female dogs produce nervous and anxious temperament puppies.

Most Collie aggression, especially that which is related to fear and anxiety responses, is directly related to genetic factors. Hybrid combinations or the so called designer dog crosses using the Collie often are much more prone to aggression than the purebred due to the temperament and traits of the other breed.

High strung and anxious Collie aggression cannot be changed by training; it is the dog’s temperament and fear response that is causing the behavior. This is the same for nervous and high strung people, they can’t change their nature, but they can learn ways to cope.

Teaching a high strung Collie not to be aggressive is possible, but they may never be the gentle, loyal and elegant companion dog you are looking for. Checking with the breeder and actually seeing the temperament of the parent dogs is the best way to avoid having to deal with this heartbreaking problem.

Avoid buying Collie puppies from pet stores or pet brokers and carefully work with rescue shelter staff to ensure you find a good temperament match for your training level and your expectations of the breed.

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Confidence and Collie Aggression

Dogs that are confident and secure in their trust of their owners and have been socialized with other people, animals and environments are much less likely to show any type of aggression. Remember that Collie aggression is most commonly associated with fear, and fear is generated by the dogs uncertainly and distrust of people and the situation.

Collie aggression can be prompted by strangers approaching, your discomfort in a situation or a perceived threat by the dog. To prevent aggression problems with humans, simply include routine interactions with others as part of your early training.

The individual shouldn’t be rough with the dog or force the dog to come to them, nor should you push or drag the dog to the helper. Instead give the person a treat and have him or her just sit and relax, avoid eye contact with the dog and allow the dog to approach on his or her own terms.

Within a few sessions the dog, or ideally the puppy, will learn that strangers are bringing treats, not people to be afraid of. Most Collies are a bit stand-offish until they understand the new person so don’t be surprised if this takes several visits before the person is treated as one of the family.

Dog Aggression

Just like any breed, Collie aggression towards other dogs is often a sign of lack of socialization. However, when a female is in heat male dogs of any breed are more likely to be aggressive and fight. Females may also be more aggressive to other intact females for the same reason.