So what do people do instead?

People use a variety of both conscious and unconscious processes to deal with their angry feelings. The three main approaches are Sharing, Calming and Suppressing.  When none of these work, that's when someone - or something - is going to get hurt.  The dog gets kicked!

Sharing your anger
Sharing your feelings and thoughts in an assertive, non-aggressive, manner is the healthiest way to diffuse anger. To do this, you have to learn how to get other people to understand your feelings and what you want.  Equally importantly, you have to do this without hurting them. Being assertive doesn't mean being pushy or demanding... it means being respectful of yourself and others. This doesn't mean 'Let it all hang-out'...

Calming your anger
("Calm down my dear!"  Michael Winner did not invent this advice! It's been around for some time ...and it's very good advice.)
This means not just controlling your outward behaviour but also controlling your internal responses.   Deflate the situation by learning to control what's happening in your body as well to your mouth.  If you want some tips on how to do this check out 'Relaxation' on the Anger Management Strategies page - link above.

Suppressing your anger
Anger can be suppressed and then converted or redirected. This happens when you hold in your anger.  When you stop reacting and focus on something else.
The aim is to inhibit or suppress your anger and convert it into more constructive behaviour

The big danger in this type of approach is that if anger isn't allowed outward expression, it can turn inwards.  You don't actually get it out of your system.  Then some very nasty things can happen.  Read more...

FTT - Why are some people more angry than others?

People who are easily angered generally have what psychologists call a low Frustration Tolerance Threshold - FTT.

They feel that they should not have to be subjected to any frustration, inconvenience, or annoyance. It's never their fault or responsibility. They think the world is out to get them.  Most are 'hot-headed'.  They get angry more easily and more intensely than the average person does.

However, some low FTT people don't show their anger in loud spectacular ways but are chronically irritable and grumpy.  They don't curse and throw things; they withdraw socially, sulk, or get physically ill. They 'get even' later.