Considerations for Behavioral Euthanasia in Dogs

Oswald, a 10-year-old neutered male crossbreed dog (suspected German shepherd dog/pit bull terrier), was presented after attacking his owner. The owner was sitting next to and petting Oswald (a common occurrence with no history of aggression) when the dog reacted explosively without an obvious trigger or significant warning other than a momentary transition to a rigid body posture. The owner was bitten several times on the arm and leg. The bites broke the skin, but injuries were lessened by Oswald’s lack of canine teeth, which had been previously extracted due to damage sustained while trying to escape a crate when confined and left alone.