Raised hackles (medically called piloerection) do not qualify as a behavior, as they are an involuntary reflex triggered by something that put a dog into a state of arousal, writes Jill Breitner. Pet owners with a new pet may appreciate this article as they get to know their pets’ responses to various stimuli. Consider sharing it in social media posts, e-newsletters and with new pet information packets.
Raised hackles could be a sign of fear, anxiety, excitement, nervousness or anger.
Source: Dogster, January 4, 2019. Link.
The best way to handle a dog with raised hackles is to redirect his attention until you can better understand the triggers and see a pattern.
INSIGHTS: While simplistic to most animal health pros, consider this in the context of a 25- to 35-year-old first time pet owner who gets a pet from a rescue shelter.