29 Jul 2025

How to prevent your dog from being angry

From Afternoons, 1:35 pm on 29 July 2025

Animal behaviour experts have been sounding the alarm in recent months over the sharp rise in dog attacks and aggressive behaviour

Selina McIntyre, a dog behaviourist with over two decades of experience, has observed a troubling increase in aggression among the dogs she works with behaviours that are now becoming the leading reason dogs are surrendered to shelters.

But there is hope. With the right understanding and early intervention, many of these behaviours can be prevented or turned around.

Dog

Auckland Council impounded over 12,000 dogs last year - more than half were euthanised. As shelters overflow, many like this are never reclaimed, prompting urgent calls for law reform. Photo: Auckland Council / Supplied