Common Disease Name:

Aggression

Medical Term for Disease:

Canine Aggression or Rage

Species Affected by Disease:

Dogs

Age Animal Usually Affected:

Can be seen in puppies, yet is most common at sexual maturity in intact males

Commonly Affected Breeds:

Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, Chows and Wolf Hybrids, and Presa Canario .

Sex Usually Affected:

Intact males and females

Disease Symptoms:

Behavior can range from stares, posture, growls, baring the teeth, snapping, or attacks of other pets or people.

Method(s) of Diagnosis:

History from owner; observation of dog's behavior with people and other dogs.

Disease Causes:

Aggression is part of the normal range of behavior, and is strongly influenced by breed, sex, early socialization history, handling, and other variables. Puppies that are poorly socialized with children, adults and other pets may show signs of aggression. In addition, dogs that run in packs or experience frustration from being fenced or chained, cruelly handled, teased or encouraged to fight, can be aggressive. "Rage" in Springer spaniels is thought to have a genetic basis. There are medical causes of aggression that must be ruled out.

Treatment:

First, consult your pet health care provider to rule out any medical causes. Risk assessment with a professional helps objectively evaluate the situation, and prevention of human injury is paramount. Aggressive dogs are never cured. However, in some, the behavior can be managed. Behavior management often is a combination of environmental control, behavior modification, and medications. Veterinarians, experienced trainers and animal behaviorists are good sources of advice. Unfortunately, euthanasia is sometimes the only appropriate solution.

Prognosis:

Aggressive dogs are never cured, but some behaviors can be managed with environmental control, behavior modification, and pharmacotherapy

Complications:

There are legal liabilities for dog bites. Some homeowner’s insurance companies will not insure households with certain breed of dogs

Prevention:

Early socialization and gentle obedience training is key. Some dogs are bred for their aggressive tendencies and can never be reliably socialized out of the primal urge to react by attacking. However, exposing your puppy to children, other dogs, and strangers between the ages of 3 and 14 weeks will help the dog learn to react appropriately. Many dogs become aggressive out of fear, so gentle handling during the puppy period and selecting a firm, but non-abusive professional trainer for your hunting dog is very helpful.

Medicines Used for Treatment of Disease:

For severe cases, drugs that increase the availability of a neurotransmitter called serotonin, and other medications to facilitate impulse control may be of some benefit. Neutering and spaying are also helpful options

Helpful Products:

Behavior modification tools are essential; they include: dog training books, trainers, muzzles, training collars, and invisible fencing.