How to Recognize Fear vs. Aggression in Strays 🧡 🐾

How to Tell Fear from Aggression in Stray Animals 🐶😨

Growling doesn’t always mean hostility. Strays often show aggression because they’re afraid or hurt. Knowing the difference helps you respond kindly — and stay safe.

🧠 Key difference:

🟡 Aggression = attack 🔵 Fear = defense

📋 Signs of Fear:

• 🐾 Tail tucked
• 🐶 Ears flattened
• 👁 Wide pupils
• 🧍 Tries to flee or hide
• 🐕 Growling while backing away
• 💦 Shaking or freezing

🔹 This animal is afraid, not aggressive.

📋 Signs of Aggression:

• 🐾 Tail stiff or raised
• 🐶 Ears up and alert
• 👁 Intense stare
• 🧍 Approaching you with tension
• 🐕 Barking or growling loudly
• 🦷 Showing teeth with intent

🔴 This animal sees you as a threat or intruder.

💡 Context is key! If you came too close → it may be fear reaction If you’re near its food bowl → possible territorial aggression If the animal is alone and trembling → most likely fear
🟢 How to act safely: 🧍 Stop — don’t approach 🗣 Speak calmly and softly 👁 Avoid direct eye contact ⏳ Give time — don’t touch 📸 Record the behavior, report to TailsPal or a shelter 🧡 Even an angry look is often just a plea: “don’t touch me, I’m scared”
Understanding behavior is the first step to kindness 🐾

💡 Context matters:

• If you got too close → likely fear
• If near food → possible territorial behavior
• If it’s hiding or shivering → likely fear

🟢 How to respond:

1. 🧍 Stop and don’t move closer
2. 🗣 Speak calmly
3. 👁 Don’t stare
4. ⏳ Give space
5. 📸 Take notes/photos, contact a local group or TailsPal

🧡 Sometimes "anger" is just fear in disguise.

Understanding = true kindness 🐾