The Dog Aggression Workbook Quotes

“There are broadly only two functions for any behavior, including aggressive behaviors: •     to allow the dog to gain access to something •     to allow the dog to avoid or escape something. We will explore these functions in”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“Birdsall, T. C. (1998). 5-Hydroxytryptophan: A clinically-effective serotonin precursor. Alternative Medical Review, 3(4), 271–280.”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“By feeding the dog treats while she is aggressing, the guardian may inadvertently reinforce the aggressive behaviors.”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“nutritional supplement worth considering is 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan). It has been shown to be highly effective in moderating many behavior problems, including aggression, with far fewer or less problematic side effects than the heavy-duty prescription medications. It is surprising that veterinarians are not more familiar with this supplement, and that they do not take greater advantage of it, given its effectiveness, its relatively low cost and that it works as soon as it is taken (unlike many medications, which can take weeks to build up an effect). It should not be used in conjunction with medications that affect serotonin activity. The correct dosage is determined experimentally. If the dose is slightly high, the dog may be initially nauseous. If the dose is too low, no effects will be achieved. The dose used at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine for addressing aggression is 2 mg/kg, administered orally every 12 hours. If 5-HTP is used, you should watch for signs of serotonin syndrome (caused by an excess of serotonin activity in the brain). These include confusion/disorientation, agitation/irritability, low responsiveness/coma, anxiety, hypomania (elevated mood and increased activity), lethargy and seizures (Sorenson, 2002). You should also be on the lookout for these signs with the use of medications that influence serotonin activity.”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“Meeting the criteria for effective use of punishment is for all intents and purposes impossible in the real world and, when you fail to meet them, serious behavioral problems are likely to result. Furthermore, it is not certain that meeting all the criteria perfectly eliminates the fallout risk.”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“Unless you control the reinforcement that was driving it, punishment will not be successful in the long term. In fact, if you removed the reinforcement, then you would not need punishment.”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook

“You’ll get nothing good from seeing relationships as win–lose scenarios. Instead, see social relationships as individuals seeking reinforcers (rewards).”
― James O'Heare, The Dog Aggression Workbook