ROTT N CHATTER, August 1992, Volume 1 Number 1

 

                       AGGRESSIVE FOR NO REASON?

 

   Has your favorite Rottie been a little cranky lately when there really

didn't seem to be a reason?  Well, you might want to have his or her thyroid

level checked.  It seems that recent case studies have show a direct link

between thyroid dysfunction and aggression.

 

   Dogs normally quite even tempered and non-aggressive displayed various

levels of unprovoked aggression whenever their thyroid levels varied in the

low to below normal range.

 

   One dog suddenly began acting quite fearful.  This unexplained behavior

preceded his biting a child in the family.  The owners thought the dog had a

vision problem, but after confirmed hypothyroidism, and giving the dog

thyroid supplements, the dog's behavior returned to normal.

 

   So, when your Rottie reacts aggressively for no apparent reason, make

sure it is not a medical problem.