About Medications for Hyperactive Dogs

There's nothing like the rambunctious greeting from your dog at the end of the day. But if you've been avoiding coming home because your dog's behavior is way too rambunctious, you may need to consider medications for the hyperactive dog.

Significance

True hyperactivity (or hyperkinesis) is relatively rare in dogs. A puppy that tears around the house, chewing everything in sight, barking at each and every new stimulus, may certainly be annoying. But this behavior is not unusual for puppies, or even a few adult breeds like terriers. On the other hand, a dog in constant motion, displaying repetitive, obsessive or out-of-control behaviors, may be cause for concern. If your dog is exhibiting abnormal behaviors, seek help. Only a veterinarian can give a diagnosis and decide if medications would help.

Readiness

There are several drugs used to treat the diagnosed hyperactive dog. It's important to note, though, that veterinarians will often try other treatments before prescribing drugs. Dog training, exercise, behavior modification techniques and dietary changes may work well in easing a dog's extreme activity level. Even when drugs are prescribed, it's a good idea to combine medication treatment with behavioral treatments.

Medications

Though there is no definitive test for hyperactivity in dogs, many veterinarians have found success in running a trial test with stimulants. When a vet gives a stimulant to the truly hyperactive dog, that dog will, in most cases, show signs of a change in heart rate and respiratory rate. That is, the dog responds to the medications the same way a person would respond to medication for hyperactivity. The stimulants have an observable calming effect. A dog that is naturally active, whether by breed or temperament, will remain active and possibly display even higher levels of activity when given stimulants.

Types

Ritalin (methylphenidate) or Dexedrine (D-amphetamine) are the most common stimulants used to medicate the diagnosed hyperactive dog. Amphetamine derivatives are also used. Some newer drugs, like Adderall, can be effective, too. Anti-depressants, like Ellavil, will work if the dog does not respond to stimulants.

Warning

Even though the medications used to treat hyperactivity in dogs are the same drugs used for adults and children, never give a dog medication that has not been prescribed. If your dog is not hyperactive, a drug like Ritalin could over-stimulate and harm your pet. At the very least, giving a normal, active dog medications for hyperactivity will do very little to calm the dog. Also note that many veterinarians have rarely seen or diagnosed the truly hyperactive dog, so be prepared to try other techniques if you have an active dog.