Table 1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

At least 6 months of age

Greater than 5 kg bodyweight

Behavioural complaint related to fear-anxiety as diagnosed by a veterinary behaviourist

Incidences of behavioural complaint apparent at least twice a week

Willing to attend a behaviour consultation at the University of Lincoln

Willing to commit to giving medication for up to a 3 month period if medication deemed to be of potential benefit to the case (owner has option of withdrawing from study at any time)

Willing to have a blood sample taken from their dog for routine laboratory evaluation (at no expense to owner), prior to use of any medication

Willing to complete all study paperwork including a daily diary referring to the animal’s behaviour problem and more global behaviour

Lactating or pregnant bitch

Male breeding dog

Dogs receiving phenobarbital treatment for epilepsy

Any current uncontrolled medical problem

Severely impaired hepatic function

Severe renal disorders

Severe cardiovascular disorders

Significant family related risk factors affecting risk to individuals from the dog’s behaviour identified (e.g. toddlers in the home in the case of aggressive behaviour towards people; aggression between dogs within home)