My dog attacks puppy after heartworm treatment. What can I do?

Question

We got a puppy 2 months ago. My 1 and a half year old dog didn't like him at first, but after a couple weeks they loved each other and never had anymore issues. The older dog just went thru heartworm treatment and is now forced to be on bedrest. It's been 2 weeks since start and ever since, he has been attacking the puppy. I know at first it was because the pup wanted to play and older wasn't feeling well, but now he's attacking when then puppy walks by or sniffs. What can I do to correct this? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 6 months old

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

It sounds like Remy may be more irritable than usual because he's been confined and isn't feeling well - this is common in dogs, just like it is in people. So, he may not be feeling very tolerant of puppy antics right now. It's likely that he's acting aggressive towards the puppy now as a kind of preemptive defense - he's used to having to growl and snap at the puppy for the past couple of weeks, so it's becoming a bit of a habit. I would recommend making sure that Remy has plenty of room to avoid the puppy if he wants to - if needed, you may need to keep the puppy on-leash or in a separate room with a baby gate between them. Praise and reward Remy with treats if you can, whenever the puppy is nearby. Also praise any friendly behavior like sniffing or tail wagging when the puppy approaches. As long as you manage things carefully to avoid letting the puppy bother him while he's ill, I would expect their relationship to return to normal once he's feeling better.

My dog attacks puppy after heartworm treatment. What can I do?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?

My pet has a skin issue. Is it mites or ringworm? What's the treatment?

My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?

My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?

Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?

Share