Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Too many dogs are euthanized because of different kind of behaviour problems today. Is it really necessary? Who has the main responsibility for this action? Do breed differences matter when it comes to increased risk of euthanasia of the dog? The purpose of this piece of work is to find the answers to these questions and also to find out what kind of behaviour problems that can lead to euthanasia of dogs in general.

The most common reason for dogs being euthanized is aggression. The aggression can be directed toward humans or other animals, mostly other dogs. There are some important factors of the dog that increases the risk of being euthanized, and these are the breed, the gender and sexual status and also the size of the dog. Some breeds are mentioned several times in studies, when it comes to dogs being euthanized because of behaviour problems: Bernese mountain dog, Rottweiler, Samoyed Dog, English Cocker Spaniel and Pinscher.

There are several solutions to behaviour problems in dogs. One is to socialize the puppy in an early age, both among humans and also other animals. Another one is to make sure that the owner is familiar with the dog´s needs and how to stimulate the dog in the best ways. Because one have found that first time owners tend to have more problems with their dogs when it comes to behaviour problems, than experienced owners do.

Many of different behaviours in dogs that we think of as a problem, is usually a fully normal behaviour for a dog living in the wild. These problems cannot be "fixed", but we can learn to control them so they only appear in situations where they are appreciated.

A veterinarian has primarily two options when treating a dog for behaviour problems and that is neutering or prescribing drugs for the dog. However, the veterinarian could also work together with an ethologist as an alternative to the other methods of treatment. The solution to the behaviour problems does not necessarily have to be clinical. Sometimes it is enough to just look at the dog´s environment, correct the shortcomings and suggest appropriate arrangements, to take control of the dog and their behaviour problems.