Jack russell terriers are small yet known to be absolutely fearless and strong-willed breed of dog. Their strong personality is makes them perfect working terriers used to bolt fox from their dens. Jack russell terriers are also used on ground-dwelling quarry such as groundhog, badger and red and grey fox. Yes, their strong personality is highly beneficial but this may lead to aggression when they are not properly socialized.

There are many reasons for a dog to become aggressive. The environment in which a dog thrives has a great role in developing this behavior problem. Living conditions, lack of socialization, inappropriate method of training, excessive punishment and being threatened by other dogs and humans are some of the things that can influence canine aggression.

We are all aware that dog breeds, especially the likes of jack russell terriers have retained their strong natural protective instinct. They are not afraid to face the world when they think that they or their family is in danger. This type of aggression, considered as defensive aggression or aggression induced by fear causes a dog to display certain behaviors such as but not limited to avoidance of direct eye contact, lowering of the head and body, tucking tails between the legs and submissive urination. On the other hand, standing tall with the ears up and forward, carrying tails high, staring menacingly and emitting low growl with teeth exposed can be seen on dominant-aggressive dogs.

Gladly, this behavior problem can be treated and prevented. The surest way to treat the problem is to seek professional help. Ask advice from your veterinarian or professional behaviorist to help you determine the causes for aggression and the proper method or way to treat it. The most common way to treat canine aggression is to limit the dog's exposure to situations that increase the likelihood of showing aggression. If the dog is aggressive to a person, this individual should become the main provider of everything the dog needs such as food, water, exercise, praise, affection and a whole lot more. Then reward the dog every time he displays submissive behavior such as ears back, looking away, crouching, lowering the head and so on. Neutering or spaying aggressive dogs can also help prevent aggression. Playing games like wrestling and tug-of-war should not be done since these games tend to promote aggressive dog behavior.

Remember that aggression can be dealt with as long as you know the proper way to do it. And remember to ask support from animal behaviorist. They know what's best for your dog.