Understanding dog aggression: Epidemiologic aspects

According to the World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization, dog aggression is a major public health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. The many consequences of this problem involve physical and psychological trauma to victims, worker disabilities, transmission of diseases, welfare problems for the aggressive dogs and even their abandonment, euthanasia, or violent death. The main objectives of this article were to review epidemiologic considerations regarding the aggression of dogs; to compile perspectives of people working within the field of applied ethology, governmental workers, physicians, psychologists, veterinarians, animal control officers, public health teachers, and dog trainers; as well as to assist the development of technical materials, public policies, training, and educational programs with emphasis on the prevention of dog aggression. In different countries, there are different epidemiologic factors and attitudes toward dog aggression, suggesting that scientific evidence and cultural considerations need to be considered when establishing local or global prevention standards for dog aggression. We conclude that there are many unresolved issues surrounding companion animal aggression, internationally. Further collaborative investigation is required to improve canine aggression preventive programs.