As a final resort, dog anxiety medication can be useful in helping to reduce the effects of anxiety on a dog, but still should be combined with a behaviour modification training program to be effective.

Typically, your vet will prescribe one of the 3 sorts of anti-anxiety medicines that are shown below, but in all cases will need to be monitored closely as there are potential complications you need to watch out for which won’t help reduce dog anxiety.

Clomipramine

Clomipramine comes from a group of drugs known as tricyclic anti-depression drugs. They help by accelerating the level of serotonin produced by the brain, that has a calming effect. The medicine can be given in tablet or capsule form and it may take almost a month before you notice an improvement.

Research has demonstrated Clomipramine to have complications of being sick, diarrhea, increased thirst, sleepiness or depression and elevation in liver enzymes. It may also have interaction with other medications, so you should tell your vet about any other medicines your dog is taking. There are more health problems where this drug should not be used or where caution should be taken, which your vet should inform you about.

Fluoxetine

Fluoxetine comes from the group of substances known as SSRI, which were originally used for humans and has now been adopted for animal use. It is mostly prescribed for short-term use, though dogs need to receive Fluoxetine for 6 to 8 weeks before it can be determined the medicine is ineffective. Fluoxetine is administered daily and is available as pills, capsules or in liquid form.

The key side-effects are gut upset, and others include loss of appetite, listlessness, panting, hyperactivity, shaking, restlessness, excessive noise and aggression. This drug can have also react with other medicines, so always mention medications and health concerns to your vet. An overdose of Fluoxetine may result in a seizure so contact your vet straight away.

Alprazolam

Alprazolam is a mild tranquilizer from the same class of drugs as Valium and comes in tablet or liquid form. It can be effective given when required, for example half an hour before storms or fireworks event. Alprazolam can also be used for longer periods so that owners can work with the dog on behavioural change, but should be utilized with care as high doses and extended use may cause dependence.

The drug’s commonest complications are clumsiness and listlessness, and should not be given to dogs with health concerns like glaucoma, liver damage, or to dogs that are pregnant or lactating. It’s also known to have interaction with other medicines, so always tell your vet about any other drugs your dog is being given.

Making Decisions About Dog Anxiety Medication

The information given is structured as a guide only to a few of the differing kinds of dog anxiety medications available. As there are upsides and drawbacks to all those discussed, you have to talk with your vet before deciding what dog anxiety treatment is best for your dog.

Author Venice Marriott is a writer, dog owner and runs a Dog Anxiety website, which provides help and information for dog owners dealing with the behaviour problems created by dog anxiety. Get more information about the dog anxiety medication when you visit the site.