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What Dog Breed Are You When You’re Angry? This is a question that many people have wondered about, especially when they feel frustrated or annoyed by something.

 Do you act like a Chihuahua, a German Shepherd, a Labrador Retriever, or another dog breed? In this article, we will help you find out what dog breed you are when you’re angry, based on your personality traits and behavior patterns.

We will also give you some tips on how to manage your anger in a healthy way. Read on to discover what dog breed you are when you’re angry!

What Dog Breed Are You When You’re Angry?

The Guard Dogs

Guard dogs are bred to be protective and react strongly to perceived threats. When feeling provoked or wronged, some people unleash their “inner guard dog.”

Rottweiler

Known for being territorial, distrustful of strangers, and quick to assert dominance, the Rottweiler breed mirrors someone who gets heated and controlling when upset. They may raise their voice, get in someone’s face, or try to intimidate others into compliance.

Doberman Pinscher

Like Dobermans, which are sharp, intimidating watchdogs, some folks become aggressive and confrontational. They’re ready to attack whatever they see as the enemy or source of their anger. Their “fight” instinct is strong.

German Shepherd

Smart and loyal German Shepherds who detect wrongdoing react swiftly and decisively. Similarly, some people are very principled and when boundaries are crossed, their sense of justice calls them to act. They stand up forcefully for what they believe is right.

The Bullies

Some dogs have a stubborn persistence and confrontational nature. When feeling mad, people can become bullheaded or even bullying.

Pit Bull

Often perceived as dangerous and aggressive, Pit Bulls get a bad rap that’s unfortunately promoted through sensationalized stories. Likewise, an angry person may be viewed as scary or threatening when they’re really just posturing out of insecurity or frustration. Their “bark” seems worse than their actual “bite.”

Bulldog

With a reputation for being hard-headed and ornery, Bulldogs mirror folks who seem to look for conflict. They can get angry and defensive easily, refusing to let things go or back down. They may seem to enjoy confrontation.

Boxer

Originally bred as guard dogs and fighters, Boxers have a strong prey drive and energetic pouncing instinct. Similar behaviors show up in high-strung people itching for a fight. Their fuse is short and they’ll come out swinging at the slightest provocation when mad.

The Herders

Bred to control the movement of livestock, herding dog breeds display focused attention, high energy, and a compulsive need for order. These same traits emerge in anger for some.

Border Collie

Smart and driven Border Collies don’t rest until the task is complete and can get neurotic chasing their goals. Likewise, somebody angry about an outcome stays worked up until the situation meets their standards.

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs have an independent streak and a tendency to disobey when tasks seem pointless. People similarly dig in their heels if asked to do something they disagree with when upset. They’re stubbornly non-compliant.

Shetland Sheepdog

Eager to please but sensitive, Shelties worry about upsetting their owner. Some folks similarly get their hackles up with defensiveness and alarm when faced with disapproval or criticism while angry. They’re uneasy with discord and want to quickly “kiss and make up.”

The Hunters

Bred to track and capture prey, sporting dogs are alert, determined, and intensely focused. These traits translate to how some respond to anger triggers.

Vizsla

Fearless hunters, Vizslas are bold and energetic in the field. When upset, some people have similar zeal in calling out an offense and seeking retribution. They won’t let up once they’ve got their target “in the crosshairs.”

Irish Setter

With predatory instincts, Irish Setters love the chase. Driven people can similarly lose their temper while eagerly pursuing a point or argument. They’ll keep debating you in circles with intense focus when angered over a disagreement.

Labrador Retriever

Cheerful Labs have endless energy for playful pursuits. Similarly, those with a happy-go-lucky disposition usually get fired up with enthusiasm rather than genuine anger. Their passion escalates but isn’t malicious. It’s just zeal that carried them away at the moment.

The Wolves

Primitive pack animals, wolves show ferocity when threatened and loyalty within their own group. Similar mindsets can be observed in some human behaviors.

Gray Wolf

Apex predators that hunt in groups, Gray Wolves can take down prey far larger than themselves. But they avoid fights they’re unlikely to win. Likewise, sensible folks restrain their anger toward those who clearly outrank or overpower them. They express moderate indignation but avoid all-out attacks.

Red Wolf

Red Wolves are fierce when defending their territory but generally elusive. Some people also have hot-blooded anger when something of value is threatened, yet cool off just as quickly once the situation resolves or clarifies itself as less dire than assumed. Their bark is bigger than their bite.

Arctic Wolf

Rare and remote animals, Arctic Wolves survive in one of the harshest environments. Self-reliant people similarly pride themselves on being lone warriors who push through adversity and injustice without relying on others. They silently battle their own demons when provoked.

The Working Dogs

Bred for jobs assisting people, working dogs are loyal helpers known for intelligence, obedience, and protectiveness. These qualities are mirrored in those who champion causes greater than themselves.

Collie

Smart, eager to please, and quick to learn, Collies epitomize a conscientious student seeking knowledge and understanding. When upset at being left confused, they persist respectfully, wanting just to comprehend.

Beagle

Mild-mannered and easygoing Beagles are slowly provoked and generally forgiving. Likewise, some folks have endless patience and give the benefit of the doubt when treated unfairly. But eventually, their sense of smell for misdeeds leads to discontent.

St. Bernard

Gentle giants, St. Bernards use their imposing size and strength for search and rescue. Similarly, some tall souls speak softly but convey power in defending others. They gain composure through purpose, rising above pettiness.

Which Dog Are You?

What behaviors do you exhibit when angry? Knowing your “breed tendency” provides insight into fitting and unfitting reactions.

If your anger brings out traits of a guard dog, tune into insecurities driving your need to control. Consider whether the perceived “threat” really warrants an attack.

Bully behaviors often mask inner wounds in need of healing. Develop self-awareness to mitigate unconscious triggers.

With herding dogs, redirect obsessive focus to more positive aims. Rather than insisting on your way when mad, look for constructive compromise.

For those who unleash their “inner hunter,” restrain knee-jerk reactions and avoid the “blind chase” of grudges. Zero in on resolving, not fueling conflict.

When you’re someone’s “favorite wolf,” moderate “pack mentality.” Solo stoicism or tribe loyalty can isolate you. Share feelings to build mutual understanding.

If a working dog at heart, take purpose from anger into driving positive change and serving others. Keep learning and teaching in that spirit.

While simplistic, the canine archetypes above help us identify weak spots and opportunities for self-improvement when we feel provoked. Typically, our anger “ breed” isn’t one pure type but a mix with a dominant tendency. Exploring these metaphors can enhance emotional intelligence and relationships.

When Anger Bites

Frustration is a universal experience, but chronic anger can have serious consequences:

• Damaged relationships
• Poor professional reputation
• Anxiety or depression
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Insomnia
• Addiction

If your anger seems beyond your control, don’t just accept it as your fate. You can develop self-awareness and communication skills to better handle heated emotions.

Litterbox Accidents Avoid Planning Ahead

Lashing out impulsively when irritated rarely solves problems long-term. It often makes them worse. Like a puppy relieving themselves wherever without considering the consequences, reacting rashly just creates more “messes” to clean up.

Chewed-Up Shoes Stem From Boredom

Sometimes we nitpick faults and provoke people when feeling bored or insecure. Creating drama gives a false sense of excitement and purpose. It’s more constructive to find meaningful goals that build people up, not tear them down.

Separation Anxiety Fuels Jealous Rage

A man who rages when his girlfriend goes out without him makes her want to get out more. Likewise, acting possessive and controlling out of fear of abandonment drives people away. Trust and open communication work better.

Excessive Barking Irritates Neighbors

People tuned out chronic complainers who angrily blame and criticize everyone else as noisy, annoying nuisances. Even when they have valid points, their message gets lost in the aggressive delivery. Speak respectively if you want people to listen.

Roaming Leads to Getting Lost

Letting your temper run wild and unleashing harsh reactions whenever triggered soon has you alienating family and friends. Like a dog that wanders too far while enraged, you become lost and alone. Staying grounded keeps your pack close.

Counter Surfing Indulges Gluttony

Always demanding “more” feeds an insatiable ego that inevitably feels frustrated when appetite exceeds supply. Anger issues often arise from unchecked self-absorption and entitlement. Focus outward to appreciate blessings already on your plate.

Rough Play Can Turn to Biting

Competitive types who must always dominate often end up going too far in the heat of a debate or game. Similarly, “playful” teasing meant lightly can turn hurtful. Leave ego aside and stay attuned to other’s feelings.

Trash Raiding Makes Messes

Like a wayward mutt getting into garbage, some use anger to dump emotional garbage—gossiping, criticizing, blaming—without considering who they hurt. Spewing negative emotions breeds resentment. Dispose inner “trash” constructively.

Chasing Cars Causes Crashes

Road rage and losing your cool in traffic usually backfire. Escalating an incident puts you and others at risk. Breathe and let minor annoyances pass. The 2 seconds saved yelling at bad drivers isn’t worth an accident.

Better Ways to Handle Anger

While anger arises instinctively, how we react to it is a choice. To master your inner “pup,” try these positive training techniques:

• Pause, breathe deep, and detach from the trigger before responding
• Identify underlying wounds or needs fueling your anger
• Communicate feelings using “I” statements, not accusations
• Listen equally and validate other perspectives
• Compromise – find solutions both sides can accept
• Forgive readily – grudges prolong pain
• Channel energy into productive goals that uplift others

Know Your Triggers

Pinpoint common anger sparks so you can catch them early and defuse tension:

• Feeling unjustly criticized or wronged
• Perceived personal attacks
• Being ignored, disrespected, interrupted
• Unfair treatment
• Rule violations
• Delayed needs
• Pain, illness, or lack of sleep
• Fear of vulnerability or losing face

Other typical triggers include traffic, bad news, financial stress, and alcohol. Identifying your unique triggers helps modification efforts.

When to Get Help

If self-help strategies don’t relieve chronic anger issues, seek counseling or anger management programs. Unmanaged, problem anger can damage health, relationships, and careers. Though not easy, taming your inner beast brings freedom.

Leash Your Inner Beast

Anger is human. But letting it run wild turns us into unchecked animals. Recognizing our “breed” tendencies, training emotional intelligence, and seeking help when needed leads to healthy relationships and well-being. Channel your inner guard dog, bull, hunter, or working dog constructively – not destructively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes some people to have guard dog anger traits?

Insecurity, anxiety over loss of control, dominant personality tendencies, and distrust of others can cause guard dog anger reactions to perceived threats. Trauma or abuse can also lead to hypervigilant protectiveness.

Are bully-breed anger outbursts usually intentional?

Not necessarily. Many factors like childhood mistreatment, psychological disorders, cognitive distortions, or lack of self-awareness can drive bully-like anger issues without conscious intent. However, taking responsibility to address unacceptable behavior is still vital.

How does therapy help herding dog anger?

By identifying core emotional needs for order and control, therapy can provide healthy coping outlets like organizing, list-making, and scheduling. Talk therapy builds self-awareness to catch obsessive anger patterns early.

Is venting hunter-dog anger through exercise healthy?

Vigorous exercise can be an acceptable outlet for short-term frustrations. However, cathartic venting shouldn’t replace communication in fixing relationship conflicts. Long-term satisfaction comes from resolution, not just burning angry energy.

Is it bad to hide wolf pack anger?

Stifling anger altogether has consequences like passive aggression, depression, and physical illness. Tempered self-control is healthy, but discussing anger calmly with trusted “pack-mates” prevents destructive repression. Howling with the pack strengthens bonds.

How can working dog helpers find positive outlets for anger?

Channeling work ethic into social justice, community service, volunteerism, or helping professions transforms anger over injustice into constructive change. Using anger proactively for good prevents reactive harm.