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My dog bites kids aggressively. Can Buspirone help his anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 1 month old | 80 lbs

My dog bites little kids aggressively and is very anxious around them. What are your thoughts on Buspirone?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. This is a very dangerous situation, having an very large, & aggressive dog around children. Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic agent used in dogs, but it may take a week or more to be effective; it is not appropriate for acute treatment of situational anxieties. I would never just depend on a medication to address this type of phobia where someone can be seriously hurt. Training, conditioning, muzzles must all be incorporated, along with an appropriate medication to try & manage Truman. You need the help of your veterinarian & a trainer or behavioral specialist if you want to socialize Truman & make him more comfortable & confident around children. I hope this helps. Take care.

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