It’s heartbreaking when your beloved furry companion starts targeting a particular person in your household.
Research shows that about 70% of dog bites happen in the home or by dogs known to a child, such as a family pet, a neighbor’s dog, or a friend’s dog.¹
But what drives a dog to single out and bite a specific family member?
Fear & Anxiety: When Past Trauma Haunts Your Pup
One of the most common reasons dogs bite is out of fear and anxiety.(ref) Suppose your furry friend has experienced a traumatic event or lacks proper socialization. In that case, they may feel threatened or cornered in certain situations, leading them to resort to aggression as self-defense.
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For example, if your dog was previously abused by a tall, bearded man, they may now associate those physical characteristics with the trauma they endured.
As a result, they may become fearful and aggressive towards your bearded brother-in-law, even if he has never harmed them.
Resource Guarding: Protecting What’s Theirs
Another potential cause of targeted biting is resource guarding. Dogs are naturally protective of their possessions, whether food, toys, or even their favorite sleeping spot.
If a particular family member frequently tries to take away your dog’s valued resources, your pup may resort to aggressive behavior to defend what they perceive as rightfully theirs.
You must teach your dog proper sharing behavior through positive reinforcement training to prevent resource guarding from escalating into biting.
By rewarding your pup for allowing others to approach their food bowl or favorite toy, you can help them feel more secure and less likely to lash out.
Pain & Illness: The Unexpected Trigger
Sometimes, the reason behind your dog’s targeted aggression is not immediately apparent. If your typically friendly pup suddenly starts snapping at a specific family member, it could be a sign that they are experiencing pain or an underlying health issue.(ref)
Dogs in discomfort may become irritable and short-tempered, causing them to lash out at whoever happens to be nearby when they’re feeling their worst.
Suppose you suspect your dog’s behavior change may be linked to a medical problem. In that case, scheduling a visit with your veterinarian is crucial to rule out potential health concerns.
Lack of Boundaries: When Playtime Goes Too Far
Sometimes, a dog may target a specific person because that individual unknowingly encourages inappropriate behavior.
For example, if your teenage son regularly engages in rough play with your dog, wrestling and allowing them to mouth his hands, your pup may view this interaction as acceptable. As your dog grows older and stronger, what was once harmless play-biting can escalate into more serious aggression.
To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to set clear boundaries and teach your dog that biting, even in play, is never okay.
By understanding why your dog may be targeting a specific family member, you can address the underlying issues and prevent future biting incidents.
With patience, consistency, and the help of a professional trainer if needed, you can help your furry friend feel more secure and comfortable around all members of your household.
Source:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.