Discussing Behavioral Euthanasia

Written by Kate LaSala

Dog Training | Dogs and Babies and Kids | Fear, Aggression and Reactivity | Pet Loss & Grieving | Rescue Dogs | Resource Guarding | Separation Anxiety

distance training, enrichment, grief resources, management, pet grief, pet loss, quality of life, rainbow bridge, senior dogs

July 31, 2023

As someone who specializes in fear and aggression cases, a few times a year, I have clients who are facing the consider of rehoming, surrendering or behavioral euthanasia. I am also a certified companion animal end-of-life death doula, so I am uniquely qualified to help you navigate these difficult times.

Behavioral euthanasia is touchy topic and one that tends to bring out the keyboard warriors. But stick with me. Euthanasia for any reason is a difficult decision but behavioral euthanasia is often not given the same understanding as a euthanasia for physical reasons like cancer or arthritis. Here we have a parallel with human healthcare – mental health struggles are often not given the same weight and empathy as physical ailments.

Nobody gets a dog thinking they may have to consider behavioral euthanasia. Despite the stigma it carries, it is not a decision made out of convenience. And it doesn’t necessarily mean the dog has mauled someone or police have been involved. Opting to euthanize for a dog that has seriously injured or killed a person or animal seems reasonable to many people but often behavioral euthanasia is done before there is serious harm. The decision about behavioral euthanasia is often about risk assessment and quality of life, for both the animal and the humans. And this is where it gets tricky, because it’s not black or white, and everyone’s risk assessment, is different.

But we know this. Nobody would speak badly about a person who opts to euthanize an animal struggling daily with pain and suffering which affects their quality of life from cancer but if that same animal is struggling with quality of life issues due to behavioral reasons, the owner is often shamed for considering behavioral euthanasia. This needs to change. Behavioral euthanasia not a decision made out of convenience.

Behavioral euthanasia is the humane ending of a dog’s life because the dog is suffering from severe behavioral issues, including aggression, fears or anxiety. It is a difficult decision for any dog owner to make, but it is sometimes the best option for both the dog and the family.

There are many reasons why a dog may be considered for behavioral euthanasia. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Aggression: Dogs that are aggressive towards people or other animals are a safety risk. They can cause serious injury or in some cases, even death.
  • Extreme anxiety: Dogs that are severely anxious may be self-harming or unable to cope with everyday situations, such as going for walks or being around other people.
  • Other behavioral problems: Other behavioral problems that may lead to behavioral euthanasia include severe separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, and self-mutilation.

The decision to euthanize a dog for behavioral reasons is not an easy one and often is met with a high degree of judgement, as if every behavioral situation can and should be “fixed.” But this thinking is overly optimistic at best and misses the mark on understanding where fear comes from in dogs. Poor breeding, lack of good, early socialization, environment and many other factors contribute to a dog’s mental health. It is important to weigh all of the factors involved, including the dog’s behavior, the safety of the family and community, and the dog’s quality of life.

If you are considering behavioral euthanasia for your dog:

  • Ensure everyone’s safety by using physical barriers like baby gates and/or a muzzle until a decision is made.
  • Talk to your veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist to rule out medical causes and explore medication options.
  • Work with a qualified behavior consultant (like me!) who can help you navigate training options, prognosis, management or other options.
  • Be transparent and honest with your behavior professional and vet so they can help you assess the situation and guide you to make the best decision for your dog.
  • Schedule my special training session to help you navigate these tough decisions in a safe, non-judgmental space. You don’t have to, and shouldn’t, navigate this alone. There is help.
  • Get support from a professional trauma therapist.
  • Be kind to yourself. You’re acting out of love in any decision you make.

You can also download my free checklist here.

It’s important to give yourself grace and understanding during these times. Losing a pet is always difficult, but it can be especially challenging when the pet is euthanized for behavior. There’s often stigma, judgement and lingering questions about whether you did everything you could have. Talk to your friends and family about your loss, being honest and seek professional help, if you need it. And most importantly, allow yourself time to grieve. Remember that you made the best decision for your dog to give them peace for an animal whose quality of life was suffering.

Here’s some grief resources, including some specifically for behavioral euthanasia. Consider scheduling a photography session before you say good-bye. The Tilly Project – End-of-Life Pet Photography is a non-profit that helps photographers who specialize in this meaningful work connect with pet guardians. Check them out!

Navigating Quality of Life Decisions

Behavioral Euthanasia Specific Resources

At Home Euthanasia Vets

Financial Resources For Emergencies

Helping Children with Grief

Helping Animals with Grief

Memorialization & Tributes

Pet Loss/Bereavement Counselors & Meetings

Reading/Books/Online Articles

Watching/Listening/Podcasts/Videos/Social Media Accounts

I am not a therapist but I’ve had clients ask me for guidance in these tough times and decisions. If you are struggling, I’d love to help you.  You can schedule a session here.

Love to all the caretakers of difficult dogs. I know you’re doing the best you can.

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