Dog Calming Pills for Deaf Dog?

Question

I have a deaf dog that is extremely sweet when there's not a lot of other people around but can get nervous/defensive and even aggressive if there's too much stimuli...ie unfamiliar guests, other dogs..etc. She gets lots of exercise and is trained well but some people are recommending dog calming treats or even Prozac when exposed to these situations. I can read her well enough now and I make sure she wears a muzzle when guests are around to avoid bad situations but I worry about when I have to board her for weekend trips and she may become anxious or aggressive while in an unfamiliar place. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I have a dog who gets crazy over noises and have found a product called Stress J (in a natural health store) and a few drops licked off a finger and within 15 minutes she is much calmer but not spacey. Also a room spray called Dog Appeasing Pheromone is very calming and no sedation. The spray is made from the pheromones of a lactating dog and makes yours feel safe. Good luck.

Answer 2

It's a possibility but there are other things I'd try first.

Can you separate her from guests entirely when they visit rather than muzzling her? She may be calmer if she doesn't have to be placed in the situation at all and muzzling a dog can be stressful to them. This is a situation where placing her another room or crate training her could be very helpful. Also, working with a professional trainer to gradually improve her behavior in confusing situations my be helpful and desensitizing. If she is not yet trained to respond to hand signals, this would also be helpful.

For dogs that are easily overwhelmed, boarding is often not the best choice. Getting a pet sitter to come by or someone to stay at your home may be better choice.

I'd go for the professional training route and see what you can do to help her. In the long run, she'll be better off and better prepared to handle unfamiliar situations.

Answer 3

Some people use a homeopathic remedy in the health food store called Hyland's Calms. I've never used it though, so can't say from experience.

Answer 4

I'm sure your vet could help you with her problem. You could try at home when some one comes over putting her in another room that way she can't see them. A muzzle is handy when going out too.