Understanding rage syndrome in dogs is complicated. Unlike other forms of aggression that arise from fear, perceived threats, or uncertainty, rage syndrome happens without apparent cause, affecting dogs that beforehand had no signs of aggression. While animal behavioral specialists are still learning about rage syndrome, its causes, and its prevention, dog owners can still educate themselves about this troubling disorder.
Here are the basics of rage syndrome and how you can help a dog with this condition thrive.
1. Rage Syndrome Causes Sudden Bouts of Aggression
Imagine that you’re taking care of your neighbor’s dog, a good-natured Bull Terrier. While on a walk, you lean over to pick up its poop. Suddenly, the dog bites your wrist, snarling, growling, and baring its teeth for what seems like a lifetime. Then, just as suddenly as the incident began, it stops. The dog seemingly has no recollection of the event and is happily trotting once more.
This is rage syndrome at work. According to Texas A&M Today, it’s a complex, serious condition that causes aggression with seemingly no trigger. During an episode, a dog’s eyes may appear glazed over, and it might not respond to basic commands – despite previously having mastered these tricks. Rage syndrome can last anywhere from a few seconds to upward of eight minutes, posing a threat to both the animal’s and its owner’s safety.
2. Rage Syndrome ≠ Conflict-Based Aggression
Animal behaviorists agree that rage syndrome is not the same as aggression arising from fear or conflict. Conflict- and fear-based aggression generally have warning signs before a dog “snaps”. For instance, a dog may growl, lick its lips, or cower before acting aggressively.
Rage syndrome happens without warning or cause. As Michigan State University shares, these “outbursts of aggression” can be “intense” and “unpredictable”. This can leave owners feeling at a loss about how to manage this condition. The good news is that with a targeted behavioral plan, owners of dogs with rage syndrome can help their pets navigate the world around them without incident.
3. Spaniels and Terriers Can Experience Rage Syndrome
While any dog can experience rage syndrome, the condition affects some breeds more than others. English Springer Spaniels are known to develop this condition, hence the term “Springer Rage” coined in the 1970s. In the 1980s, some veterinary journals reported that English Springer Spaniels were among the top breeds referred to animal behavioral specialists.
Bull Terriers and even some types of retrieving dogs can also have symptoms of rage syndrome. While the exact reason is unknown, these dogs’ predisposition to seizures is speculated to play a role. Litters resulting from poor breeding can also play a role.
4. Treatment Options for Rage Syndrome Include Medication
Rage syndrome is classified as a rare seizure disorder. As such, some dogs respond well to medication that treats seizures, such as phenobarbital, which is effective for treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Some dogs require this medication every day; others manage well with a scheduled dosing plan.
Positive reinforcement training is also key when managing rage syndrome. This method involves creating a positive association with a desired behavior. For example, giving your dog a treat after they respond to “sit” is a form of positive reinforcement. You’re showing the dog that good things happen when they respond appropriately to verbal commands.
While consistent training can reduce stress and uncertainty in the face of stressful events, they can’t completely undo rage syndrome. The fact is, there is no cure for this disorder. Treatment rests more on managing the condition than suppressing it altogether.
5. Dogs with Rage Syndrome Aren’t “Bad”
Each dog with rage syndrome will experience symptoms differently. Some dogs only experience episodes every few months, allowing for a “cool down” period that owners can manage. Other dogs, however, will have episodes every other day. In situations like these, if an affected dog is a persistent danger to themselves and others, euthanasia may be the kindest option.
Dogs with rage syndrome aren’t “bad”; they just have different needs than other dogs. If you’re looking to adopt a dog with this condition, you’ll have to make some big adjustments to your lifestyle. It’s not recommended to have other animals in the household, and young children may need to keep their distance from the dog.
With the help of an animal behavioral specialist, you can gain further insight into a dog with rage syndrome and maintain a harmonious household. However, there’s no shame in admitting that a dog’s disorder is beyond the scope of your care. There are many reputable rescue organizations and shelters committed to helping dogs with rage syndrome manage their symptoms and find good homes.
6. Rage Syndrome Calls for Lifestyle Adjustments
Living peacefully with a dog that has rage syndrome is doable. It just requires that you make some adjustments to your lifestyle. These could include:
- Avoiding dog parks. Because rage syndrome happens so suddenly without warning, you’ll likely have little time to intervene if your dog attacks another dog at a park. Not only could this make you liable for any injuries, but depending on where you live, the county could deem your dog “dangerous”. This can have a host of legal implications, even limiting where you can rent an apartment.
- Keeping a one-pet household. Dogs with rage syndrome typically don’t fare well in households with other animals. The dynamics between the dog and others could also create tension, fueling further future conflicts.
- Consistently working with an animal behavioral specialist. Rage syndrome can affect dogs for the rest of their lives, and they may require constant adjustments to their training methods and living situation to remain calm.
Dogs with rage syndrome aren’t lost causes, and they’re equally worthy of love as other pets. They simply require some forethought and patience when it comes to managing this unpredictable condition.
