-
Health conditions such as epilepsy, hypothyroidism, dental disease, arthritis and hip dysplasia can cause aggression in dogs. Abuse, neglect or abandonment during the dog's early years could also create bellicose behavior.
-
Common medications for treating canine aggression include Clomicalm, Elavil and Prozac. These anti-anxiety drugs are largely considered safe for dogs at the proper dosage, which will be determined by the prescribing veterinarian who will consider your dog's weight, age, activity level, severity of symptoms, and any previous drug allergies. The specific drug that your vet prescribes will depend on the root cause of the aggressive behavior. Dogs that seem to be acting out because of separation anxiety will likely be medicated differently than one that displays fear-based dominance. Monitor your dog closely for any possible side effects. Lethargy, loss of appetite, or even exaggerated symptoms of aggression are all possible adverse reactions to the medication, which should be reported to your vet immediately.
-
Your veterinarian may suggest that your dog take the medication on a temporary basis. In many cases, a temporary treatment of 3 to 6 months is sufficient. For severe cases, it is more likely that medication treatment will be ongoing. If you or your vet discontinue the medication and the aggressive behavior returns, notify your vet as quickly as possible.
-
According to Dr. Jon Rappaport of Petplace.com, most vets prefer behavioral modification programs and will prescribe anti-anxiety medication as a last resort. For cases where behavioral programs do not work, adding medication in the treatment program has been found to improve results. Anti-anxiety medications could help relax your dog allow it to gain the most benefit from behavioral therapy.
-
While medications can help treat canine aggression, it is not a panacea to the problem. It is recommended that behavior modification programs accompany medications. According to the veterinarian-monitored website, Animalhealthchannel.com, anti-anxiety drugs may be used in combination with behavior modification to help control aggression. The Pound Ridge Veterinary Center also states that, "Anti-anxiety medication is not a substitute for behavioral therapy but can augment it."
Even after placing an aggressive dog in a professional behavioral program and incorporating medication as necessary, never leave an aggressive dog unattended around other animals or people, especially small children. Be especially vigilant if the dog is placed in a stressful or new environment, such as being kenneled or left with friends or relatives.
