October 4, 2024
Why Are There More Reports of Aggressive Dogs?
As the owner of a geriatric Shih Tzu who demands to travel to most places by stroller, I sometimes — very briefly — forget about how much effort is needed to build wanted behaviours between a person and their dog.
It takes daily care and attention from a loving person to keep pets healthy and happy.
At the shelter, helping animals who need support for behavioural challenges is an area we have focused heavily on over the last few years. From recruiting staff and volunteers dedicated to supporting changes to an animal’s unwanted behaviours, to bolstering our foster program and resources for daily enrichment, and providing more post-adoption support for animals who need ongoing help with behaviour — meeting an animal’s mental needs has proven essential in securing more second chances.
In September, Ottawa shared that the city saw an increase in the number of reports of aggressive dogs, up from 715 in 2022 to 845 in 2023.
During the pandemic, the number of dog owners in Canada increased and training resources and opportunities for socialization diminished — which could account for the recent rise in reports of dog aggression. As financial pressures continue to mount, training is out of reach for some families and pets in need.
At the OHS, we have also seen more dogs with complex behavioural needs. To help preserve the bond between people and pets and offer more socialization opportunities, we have expanded our group training classes, including a new Puppy Kindergarten program to get dogs and people started on a foundation of socialization and welcome behaviours.
Training for dogs is important. It’s just as important to teach adults and kids how to read animal body language and how and when to safely approach or engage with an animal. That Shih Tzu in the stroller? When she was a much younger (and more agile) dog, she gave my kid a bite, after my kid failed to understand that our new pup did not, in fact, want to “dance” with her. No damage done, fortunately, but it was a wake-up call and prompted pretty quick investment in our family’s time to better set our dog up for success.
Our humane education programs reach more than 6,000 children and youth each year, promoting safe interactions with animals – if your kid hasn’t benefited, tell their teacher about these free classes!
Sadly, training is left too late or doesn’t happen at all. The result? Too often, a bond broken between the animal and its person and a bewildered animal surrendered to the OHS — or worse — abandoned or rehomed to someone ill-equipped to manage the behaviour.
Can training fix everything? No, but good training can help your dog be the best dog they can be. Need help? We’re here for you.

Sharon Miko
President & CEO