My dog Tex goes crazy and get really aggressive when I take him to the Vet and my Vet is the most wonderful Vet I have every met. Why does my dog do this?
Your dog is associating the veterinarian with pain or fear. His aggressive offensive behavior at the veterinary office is a defense mechanism learned from previous success using aggression. He may have had a traumatizing (from his point of view) experience at a veterinary facility in the past that could have been either painful or frightening, and therefore associates the location, people, and smells with the painful or fearful event(s). You can take steps to work with your veterinarian to make future visits safer and less stressful for both Tex and the veterinary staff. Institute basic training, teach Tex to wear a muzzle, and consider going to the Vet’s office several times a week just for treats- i.e.
