"Aggressive behavior is one of the most difficult pet topics to talk about outside of euthanasia. However, the number one reason animals are euthanized is problem behavior," says Dr. Sheila M. McCullough, veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital at Urbana. "We think of euthanasia as a merciful relief from suffering for an incurably ill or old animal. But the majority of pets are euthanized because of behavior problems."

Aggressive behavior in pets must be addressed without delay. The longer it continues, the harder it is to change. Don't wait until someone is injured to seek help with this problem.

Some behavioral problems result from medical problems. A thorough physical examination by your veterinarian can reveal an underlying problem. You can also ask your veterinarian for suggestions on curbing aggressive behavior. However, veterinarians often don't feel qualified to give such advice because their training is in medicine rather than behavior. Pet behavior is a new and growing field.

If the pet is healthy and initial efforts to curb the behavior don't work, then Dr. McCullough advises immediately contacting a board-certified behaviorist. This is a veterinarian who specializes in animal behavior. Dr. Karen Overall, a behaviorist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, runs a behavior clinic that pet owners can call for information (215/898-3347). Since mishandled aggressive behavior is potentially dangerous, most specialists will want to see the pet and owner in person. Dr. Overall can refer pet owners to a specialist in their area.

Prospective owners can reduce the chance they'll end up with an aggressive pet by educating themselves. Through books and animal shows, learn about the personalities of different breeds and the environments they do well in. For example, a particular breed may look like a teddy bear, but a dog's signals can be hard to read and aggression is not always easy to anticipate. Read several books about general pet care and about handling and raising a puppy or kitten. A pet dog or cat is a 15-year emotional commitment. A little advance planning will help make it a rewarding experience.

When picking out a puppy or kitten, don't choose either the most pushy or the shiest one in the litter. Pick out a friendly, happy pup or kitten that will come to you. Then, while it is young, accustom your new pet to people young and old, other animals, and a variety of different situations. Early socialization is very important.

If you are considering adopting an adult animal that is known to be aggressive, be realistic about what you can expect. Even if the problem was aggravated by the previous environment, rehabilitating an aggressive animal is a big project. To believe the animal needs only tender loving care is a mistake. Animals do change, but it takes dedicated work and lots of time. An aggressive pet is a liability, especially if there are young children around.

"If a pet shows signs of aggression," says Dr. McCullough, "the most important thing is to get help right away. Don't delay."

For more information on animal health, contact your local veterinarian.

To view the original article, click here.