Which are the three types of aggression observed in MWDs?

• A. Dominant, defensive, and pain-elicited aggression
• B. Dominant, submissive, and territorial aggression
• C. Aggressive, passive, and neutral
• D. Predatory, defensive, and affectionate

Answer: (A)

Aggression in MWDs is categorized by what triggers it: dominance, defense, or reaction to pain. Dominant aggression shows up when a dog tries to assert control over a person or another dog—think of a stiff, direct stance, lingering stare, or a determined push to take the lead in a situation. Defensive aggression arises when the dog perceives a threat to self or handler; it’s a protective response, often seen when the dog feels trapped or challenged, with signs like tense body, pinned ears, growling, and a warning bite or snap to deter the threat. Pain-elicited aggression occurs specifically when the dog is in pain or being touched in a painful area; it’s a reflexive defense to avoid further pain and can manifest as growling or snapping when handled in the painful spot.

Other options don’t fit these three established categories: submissive aggression isn’t a recognized form of aggression, and affectionate or neutral terms aren’t aggressive behaviors. While territorial behavior can be defensive in nature, the standard three taught in MWD contexts are dominance, defensive, and pain-elicited aggression.