Understanding Behavioral Euthanasia: Will a Vet Put Down an Aggressive Dog

I am Dr. Karen Whala, an In-home euthanasia specialist who desires all pet parents and their pets to be at peace when it’s time to transition from life to death.

In this article, I will be providing an overview of when Behavioral euthanasia may be considered, how to find a vet that will help, and how aggressive pet euthanasia is addressed differently than other types of euthanasia.

Deciding to say goodbye to a beloved pet due to behavioral concerns is a deeply emotional and often misunderstood decision by others who may never have been faced with this situation. It is not a decision that many dedicated and loving pet owners arrive at lightly.

Much of the guilt and devastation that a pet owner can feel can be exacerbated by the judgment that can often accompany going through such a decision. Judgment from family members, friends, and even veterinary staff. A pet owner can usually feel like they ‘failed’ their pet somehow. But know that behavioral euthanasia can be the humane choice in cases where, despite the dedication and best efforts of owners, a pet’s behavior remains unpredictable, poses a risk to others or themselves, or prevents them from being rehomed successfully.

These behaviors include Aggression, extreme or severe anxiety, and pets that are highly reactive to either other pets, people, or strangers and can stem from many factors, including personality, past experiences, lack of socialization, or medical conditions, often beyond what training, medication, or environmental adjustments can resolve.

When Behavioral Euthanasia May Be Considered

The choice to pursue behavioral euthanasia is complex, involving the pet’s quality of life, the safety of others, and a careful assessment of options. Some dogs with behavioral issues may struggle to live fulfilling lives due to the inability to safely socialize, venture outside, or receive necessary care. In such situations, euthanasia may be the most compassionate option, freeing them from a life of stress or isolation.

Aggression can be caused by any number of factors:

• Personality
• Poor Socialization
• Extreme fear
• Traumatic circumstances
• Other factors that aren’t always under your control

When deciding if euthanasia is the best option, consider:

• Severity of the Behavior: Is the behavior manageable, or does it pose a significant risk to people and other animals?
• Quality of Life: Does the behavior prevent the dog from experiencing happiness, connection, or the ability to be a part of the family?
• Ability to Ensure Safety: Can the owner realistically prevent situations where the behavior may endanger others?
• Financial and Emotional Resources: Is it sustainable for the family to continue the care and management required, and is it emotionally viable?

While rehoming is sometimes suggested, it may not always be possible, as the behaviors may persist and pose risks in other settings. Transparency with potential adopters and understanding of legal responsibilities should harm occur after rehoming are essential.

Will a veterinarian euthanize my pet?

This can be a tough situation as some veterinarians may not feel comfortable euthanizing an otherwise healthy pet, especially if the reasons can be perceived to be mitigated through environmental modification, medications, or behavioral training.

Veterinarians, like human medical doctors, are to advocate for their patients and can sometimes feel like they’re betraying that trust if asked to euthanize for behavioral reasons. However, not all vets are in agreement with when it is appropriate to euthanize for aggression. For this reason, if you believe that behavioral euthanasia is relevant, it is recommended to first ask if your primary veterinarian would be willing to help you in this situation or, if not, if they may be able to recommend an in-home euthanasia veterinarian who can help.

But first, ensure you have the information they will need before they feel comfortable euthanizing a pet for aggression.

Information your vet may request when considering whether to euthanize an aggressive pet

• How old is your pet? Gender? Breed?
• When did your pet last attack/bite another animal or person? Some laws state a quarantine period is required before euthanizing a pet that has bitten someone. If euthanasia is performed within the quarantine period, there will be necessary rabies testing.
• Is your pet current on the rabies vaccine?
• How long has your dog been acting aggressively?
• To whom does the dog act aggressive? Other animals or household pets? Family/friends or strangers or to you, the owner?
• Has it progressively gotten worse?
• What triggers your pet’s aggression?
• What attempts have you made to correct it? This can be environment modification, such as keeping the pet away from other household pets or taking the pet to a trainer or veterinary behaviorist. Take to your vet to identify whether pain or cognitive disorders are causing the aggression and obtain appropriate medication for it.

This information helps your veterinarian determine the severity of the aggression, how to peacefully proceed if euthanasia is warranted, whether there are any treatment options, and the likelihood of supporting long-term

The Euthanasia Process

Once you have identified a veterinarian that will support your decision to euthanize, the next step is a discussion with your vet on the most peaceful way to proceed. Most veterinarians who proceed with euthanizing aggressive dogs want the process to be as smooth, safe, and peaceful as possible. This may include the addition of oral or transmucosal sedatives depending on the safety level required and whether your pet is eating. If your pet is not eating and is aggressive in any handling, there are a few options in this case, and your vet will discuss those options. Otherwise, in typical cases, be prepared for your vet to take extra precautions when proceeding to maximize safety for both the vet, the pet owner, and any people or pets that may be present.

Dogs that are euthanized for aggression are typically healthier than dogs that are euthanized for other reasons and, for this reason, often require more medications, the presence of vet assistance, and more time. Because of this, the costs for euthanasia, whether at home or in a clinical setting, will often be higher to reflect this.

Guidance and Support

We understand that reaching this decision is overwhelming, and there are several options for getting help on the decision of whether to euthanize. Consulting with a compassionate veterinarian or certified behaviorist can help provide clarity, resources, and options. They can assess whether the behavior could be managed or, if not, support you through this difficult journey. But remember, no outside party really knows your situation with your pet.

In the end, deciding to pursue behavioral euthanasia is an act of compassion and courage. It is a decision made out of love for the pet and a commitment to their well-being and the well-being of others if necessary.

If it comes to this, allowing a pet to pass peacefully, surrounded by those who love them, can be a kinder choice than risking a future of possible isolation, stress, or harm.