Pharmaceuticals are rarely the sole solution to behavior problems and should always be used in conjunction with a counter-conditioning plan. Pharmaceutical agents are metabolized in the liver and may have long-term effects. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor these effects.

Sometimes removal of stressful living conditions and creating a new behavior pattern can be made easier with the help of one of several pharmaceutical agents designed to restore chemical balance within the nerve synapse. Understanding the root cause of your dog’s behavior will assist in the application of the correct medication. Always talk to your veterinarian or accredited behaviorist for assistance.

Behavior situations that may also benefit from pharmaceutical therapy include situations where counter-conditioning exercises have reached a plateau, situations where it is difficult to manage the situation (e.g., dog aggression and thunderstorms), and finally when the reaction to the situation is so reactive that diversion is impossible (e.g., panic reaction and fear aggression).

Different Medications Have Slightly Different Actions

Genetic Sources. All dogs exhibit normal genetic / instinctual behaviors like territoriality, herding, hunting, and family protection. In most dogs, these instincts are in control. In some dogs, these instincts cause inappropriate behaviors. Some medications are better at targeting genetic or instinctual responses.

Personality. Other behavior problems are more closely related to your dog’s personality. Some medications such as Prozac (Fluoxetine) or Paxil (Paroxetine) are better at managing stress- or social-related behaviors.

Panic Responses. Some medications are better at managing panic responses seen in separation anxiety or fear aggression.

Not all medications are created equal. Most behavior-modification drugs will allow your dog to experience the socialization exercises and learn from the experiences. Drugs like Valium (Diazepam) will not allow your dog to learn from the experience. This effect is useful if the experience is not particularly positive (e.g., thunderstorms, vet visits, and traveling) and you do not want your dog to experience it.

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