Aggression in a Weimaraner has genetic factors. A Weimaraner is born with the potential to be aggressive being very territorial and aloof to strangers. Despite the reputation as excellent hunter and highly intelligent breed, that doesn't stop a Weimaraner from showing signs of aggression.

According to canine behaviorist, aggression is an intent to intimidate or to attack a person or another animal. Aggression is often displayed in behaviors such as barking, growling, snapping, snarling, stiffening of the body and biting. Dogs don't just become aggressive without reason. Here are some reasons why a dog becomes aggressive:

Genetic and hereditary - Very territorial breeds such as Weimaraners are more likely to become aggressive. The characteristic is passed on from generation to generation. A Weimaraner will protect or guard what he considered valuable resources- the home or the yard, his foods, toys and other valued objects. He may also show aggressive behavior to those, either animal or people, he perceives as threat or danger to his family or pack.

Fear - A dog may become aggressive when he is afraid and believes that he must defend himself from danger of being harmed. For example, the vet needs to examine or roll him over, he might panic and bark because he believes that he must protect himself from what he perceived danger.

Medical or physical ailments or a traumatic experience

Lack of socialization

Number one step in addressing canine aggression is to rule out its causes. Once you and your vet have already ruled out the causes, seek professional advice, say from animal behavior specialist, for behavioral modification and professional guidance. Before professional help comes, it is your responsibility as dog owner to prevent your Weimaraner from harming other people and animals. Keep him under close supervision while still in the process of treatment. As much as possible, limit his exposure to situations that may trigger his aggressive behavior. Avoid playing games such as wrestling or tug-of-war because these games can promote aggressive behavior. If a dog shows aggression to a certain family member, let that person become the main source of everything. Other family members must ignore the dog and provide no food, play or affection. Reward your dog for every sign of submissive behavior. Submissive behavior includes licking or lowering his head when being reached for.

People who have aggressive dogs must always remember not to punish their dogs. Punishing your aggressive dog will do more harm than good.