Common Name:
Aggression
Medical Term:
Canine Aggression or Rage
Species Affected Animals:
Dogs
Age:
Can be seen in puppies; most common is at sexual maturity in intact males
Commonly Affected Breeds:
Pit bulls, Rottweilers, German shepherds, huskies, Alaskan malamutes, Doberman pinschers, chows and wolf hybrids, Presa Canario (sp)
Sex:
Intact males, females
Symptoms:
Behavior can range from stares, posture, growls, baring the teeth, snapping, or attacks of other pets or people.
Diagnosis:
History from owner; observation of dog's behavior with people and other dogs
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 poorly socialized to children, other adults or pets, and 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 must be ruled out.
Treatment:
Medical causes of aggression must be ruled out, so first, consult your pet health care provider. 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 household 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.
Vet Medicines used in Aiding/Curing this 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
Helpful Products:
Behavior modification is essential- dog training books, trainers. Muzzles, training collars, and invisible fencing.
