Reasons for Euthanizing a Dog

Euthanizing a family pet can be a traumatic experience and is a deeply personal decision. Owners often have to make tough choices and take into account factors such as health, financial burden, safety and age when considering this decision. Sometimes, however, euthanasia is the most humane outcome in a difficult situation.

  1. Illness

    • A dog that is suffering and has no chance of recovery is considered a good candidate for euthanasia. The dog's illness can be long-term and incurable, such as cancer, organ failure or injuries from an unexpected accident. A dog that has been mauled by another dog or wild animal or hit by a car can have life-threatening injuries that might not be treatable. A long-term illness that requires surgery or medication may be financially out of reach for the owner. If the owner is not able to properly care for the dog, then euthanasia can spare the dog pain and the owner the financial burden. An owner might be financially able to care for a terminally-ill dog but choose not to put the dog through the suffering of treatment.

    Agression

    • Behavioral problems, although less common, can be a reason for euthanizing a dog. Shelters in particular that are unable to find new homes for dogs with aggressive behavioral problems must sometimes euthanize the dog. Often uncontrollable dogs can be a physical danger to the owner or their families. If owners are unable to find sufficient help to train the dog or find another suitable home or shelter that will take the dog, they may choose to euthanize.

    Old Age

    • A dog's average life expectancy is 13 years, which means that consistent dog owners will inevitably lose a dog to old age. Old age in dogs, just as in humans, brings a host of physical problems. Older dogs often have arthritis and rheumatism, trouble hearing or seeing, and organ diseases. As a general rule, if the dog still seems happy, it can continue to live a good life. If the dog stops eating or is unable to perform basic bodily functions, it might be time to consider euthanasia. When the effects of old age begin to show in the body and spirit, it might be time to euthanize.

    Forced Euthanization

    • Owners of dogs that have bitten humans, killed other dogs or animals or exhibited extremely aggressive behavior may be required to euthanize their dog by local authorities. Laws differ from city to city but usually a dog that has had a complaint filed against it or is classified as a dangerous or vicious dog can be subject to court-authorized euthanasia if it bites or is a continued threat to the community. Some breeds such as pit bulls are automatically labeled dangerous breeds by city ordinances.