Dog aggression may be due to a lack of behavioral training and socialization, but some dogs may be genetically predisposed to aggression. Aggression can also occur due to a medical condition that requires attention. The aggression can be eliminated through training, socialization, treating the underlying condition or as a last resort, aggression medication.
Conditions Causing Aggression
There are numerous medical conditions that can lead to aggressive behavior in canines. These conditions may include:
- Tooth pain
- Hormonal imbalance
- Distemper
- Head injuries
- Parasites or allergies causing severe itchiness
- Epilepsy and seizures
These conditions can be treated with medication or if need be, surgery.
The aggression may manifest through excessive barking, jumping on people or other dogs and biting.
The medication used to control these conditions may include:
- Hormone supplements, which can recreate the balance and calm the dog
- Pain medication
- Anti convulsants
- Antipyretic drugs (for fever)
These medications will reduce pain and the dog should have a normal behavior, without episodes of aggression. However, if the aggression persists, the dog may not be fully treated or may have a behavioral problem.
Aggression Medication
If the aggression cannot be eliminated through training, socialization and it is not caused by a medical condition, the only option to control the dog’s behavior is through medication.
The aggression medication for canines can include anti anxiety drugs or anti depression drugs such as Prozac, which will calm the dog and fix any chemical imbalances in the brain, which can lead to aggressive behavior.
The dog will receive the treatment throughout several weeks and will be monitored.
Meanwhile, you will also have to pay attention to his training and socialization.
Talk to a trainer and get a few classes, where you will have to be present as well. During the training classes, the dog will be put in a subordinate position and will be taught to listen to your commands. Consequently, even if your dog tends to become aggressive, you will be able to stop him by using a few simple commands.
Socialization is also important and should be done with other canines and people also. The dog will be exposed to other dogs for a short period of time at first and during this whole time the dog will have to be on a leash, so that you can control him. Gradually, the dog can spend more time in the companionship of other dogs and you can even drop the leash if you notice your dog doesn’t display an aggressive behavior.
The same gradual socialization will be done with people, so that your dog gets used to seeing new people without jumping on them or becoming aggressive.
Aggression Medication Side Effects
If administered over a longer period of time, the aggression medication can have side effects such as:
- Lethargy
- Sleepiness
- Change of personality
- Liver and kidney damage
Discuss these side effects with your vet and see if you can prevent these.