Re: temperment during heat

In Reply to: temperment during heat
Category:   Aggression
Posted by:  Brooke Cline
Posted on:  May 14, 2003 at 19:22:06

: I have a 8 month old jack russel who is very calm and loveable with all children and myself. She recently went into heat for the first time and has become very agressive towards my children and their friends. Is this normal? Will this go away when she finishes her cycle? Or is her tempermant just changing? I would appreciate any help you could give me. Thank you BRooke Cline

Response:

Dear Brooke,

Female dogs don't get PMS...at least not to extent that their temperaments completely change. If you are doing the responsible thing and restricting her normal routine to avoid an unwanted pregnancy, it is likely that this "change" is what is causing the behavior.

Since she's having a problem with the kids, I suggest you limit the time they spend together until she's out of heat and "things" return to normal. I also suggest you schedule an appointment to have her spayed; she does not need to be able to reproduce in order for her to be a great companion for your children.