Aggression is customary canine conduct. In the wild, dogs and cats use their aggression to hunt for food, to protect them and to safeguard their terrain or boundaries. Dogs and cats use aggression to threaten or damage but most of the time, dogs intimidate aggression without needing to follow through. The reason is that dogs and cats that are appropriately socialized, recognize and respect the chain of command.

As people do not correspond in the same way as pets do, there might sometimes occur some misunderstandings amongst them and people. If a dog feels frightened, confused or in danger by a person, the dog and cats may howl, show his teeth, or even snap.

Causes of Aggression

Brain chemistry - This state is not dissimilar to clinical depression, compulsive disorders, etc., happening in humans. Serotonin plays a noteworthy role in the neuro-chemical management of aggression in the brain, especially when a component of impulsivity is present. Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome which is linked with aging degeneration can be managed through medication, and environmental and behavioral modification.

Hypothyroidism – It is a common diseases pertaining to the malfunction of thyroid gland. In this condition there is less secretion of the thyroid hormone. It is an autoimmune damage of the thyroid gland, which affects more than fifty dog breeds.

Encephalitis (bacterial or viral) - Any situation that leads to inflammation of the brain can cause aggression. Diagnosis is by examination of clinical signs and evaluation of the cerebrospinal fluid – i.e. the fluid within the brain and spinal cord.

Hypoglycemia - Hypoglycemia is a medical terminology that means low blood glucose levels. Symptoms of a hypoglycemic attack can consist of confounding or collapse, generalized weakness, aggression, mood fluctuations, glassy eyes, etc.

Hydrocephalus - Hydrocephalus is a congenital state in which the spaces in the brain known as the ventricles become engorged and the surrounding brain tissue then gets compressed. In humans, the term ‘water on the brain' has been used to describe this condition. Dog breeds most commonly affected are toys and brachycephalics.

Epilepsy - Dogs and cats that have epilepsy and periodic convulsions leads to aggression in the immediate post-seizure phase before it returned to normal state. Dogs in this condition should always be handled carefully as they are not fully conscious of what they are doing.

Brain tumors - When an aged dogs and cats abruptly or unexpectedly shows a change of behavior, generally increased aggressiveness, there is a possibility of a brain tumor. Brain tumors can be diagnosed from clinical signs and symptoms that are presented by it. Other methods are neurological testing, with or without ancillary diagnostic aids, such as CT scan or MRI.

Symptoms of Aggression

• Excessive barking
• A tendency to snarl, howl, or snap to protect food
• Over-protectiveness of possessions
• Fearfulness in new situations or around strangers;
• Attacks on other animals in the surroundings
• Attempts to mount people or other neighboring dogs
• Shattering and roaring when petted, groomed, or lifted
• Chasing moving objects like cars etc 
• Repeated escapes from home

Treatment of Aggression

Some herbs of ayurveda have been very beneficial in curbing the aggression. Below are some of them.

Ashwagandha – this herb is world famous in toning up the nervous system. It cools the body down and helps in subduing any aggression. It is also helpful in suppressing the abnormalities caused by vata aggravation. It is known as Withinia Somnifera.

Brahmi – Bacoppa monneri is one of the strongest herbs that are helpful in controlling the brain activities. It strengthens the brain and also does not let bad chemicals get secreted that are the main reason for the disturbed condition of the brain. Since time immemorial Brahmi has been used in enhancing the mental skills and also keeping in the mind cool and calm.

Jatamansi – Jatamansi nordostachys is an herb that has been used since prehistoric times to treat various abnormalities of brain. It is extremely helpful in treating convulsions, epilepsy and paralysis etc. it also provides strength to body. It is also helpful in increasing the reflexes and also improves the memory skills.

Choker – It is one of the most powerful brain stimulator that helps in curing the diseases related to brain. It is extremely beneficial in psychosis condition and also tones up the nervous system. Botanically know as Angelica glauca, choker is very useful in strengthening the brain functioning and is also helpful reducing the aggressive behavior.