Idiopathic Aggression is described as the most dangerous kind of dog aggression, as it can appear all of a sudden and without a known cause. It can also be a form of aggression that is misinterpreted by the owner and even by the trainer and/or behaviourist. Working towards overcoming the aggression without discernment of the cause can create even more unpredictable behaviour in dogs.
Some causes of Idiopathic Aggression can include epilepsy, thyroid issues (such as hyperthyroid and hypothyroid), leishmaniasis, kennel cough, hormonal changes, medication side effects and kidney issues. It’s possible that it can also be passed down through genetics from one or both parents, which can be dependent on dog breed. However, the diagnosis of Idiopathic Aggression should be labelled once other causes have been ruled out.
Signs of Idiopathic Aggression in dogs are likened to other forms of aggression, such as: lunging, snarling, salivating, growling, barking and biting. There’s one other sign of Idiopathic Aggression, which is glazed over eyes and what is described as a “possessed” looking dog.
A distinguishing factor in Idiopathic Aggression is that it can start to be presented in moments of severe aggression between the ages of one to three years old, and it is most commonly presented in breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards and Lhasa Apsos, which can imply that there is a possible genetic disorder that clouds over some of these breeds of dogs.
When clients come to me to support them in helping their dogs overcome “sudden” aggression, my first requirement is that they take their dogs to the vet to rule out all other causes, and styles of training such as positive punishment leaning into quite aversive methods should be avoided to prevent escalating the aggression. This is why it’s important to work with your dog and not against them!
Unfortunately there isn’t a cure for Idiopathic Aggression. As it’s summarised with no known cause, the management of it is still dog-specific and should focus on each dog’s journey. It’s important to work on preventing and managing your dog’s aggression before you make decisions regarding rehoming and euthanasia.
In a family or shared home setting, everyone should be working towards the same goal for your dog. Adjusting the environment to meet your dog’s needs is imperative, as is understanding how we as humans affect and contribute towards dog behaviour, whether or not we’re aware of it. Idiopathic Aggression is a tough journey for the human, but for the dog it’s probably the biggest and longest (lifelong) challenge they will face.
Comments