Leash Aggression in Dogs: Why It Happens and How to Help

Dog aggression is something I hear a lot about. One of the most common things owners say to me is:

“My dog becomes anxious and aggressive when on the lead if we meet another dog, but is fine when off the lead.”

Here’s why…

When dogs face a situation they’re unsure about, their first instinct is usually to run. If that’s not possible, the next option is to freeze or growl — and the last resort is to attack. Most dogs follow this sequence, which is why they’re often calmer with other dogs when off the lead: they still have the option to run.

On the lead, that option is removed. Some dogs then skip straight to the growl, snap, or lunge — not because they’re “bad” but because their choices feel limited.

Some dogs also learn through past experiences. If they’ve been snapped at before, they may now “attack before being attacked.” It’s an association they carry forward, even though dogs don’t live in the past in the way humans do.

So the behaviour you see on the lead often has a very logical explanation — and with calm, kind training, it can be changed.

🐾 Would you like proven step-by-step solutions? My Dog Training DVDs walk you through real-life cases, showing exactly how I’ve helped dogs overcome leash-related issues.

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