Distressed 10 year old dog

rmh6 · 12-26-2010

I've noticed over the past week that my 10 year old dog (Sadi, who is generally happy, healthy, friendly and all out attention seeker) has become very aloof, distressed, panic like behavior. Typically she wants to be petted and will come to me for attention when eye contact is made with her and now she won't come anywhere near me unless I call her to me. She has no interest in even getting a treat.

I have noticed that she will whimper when it is time to go for a walk or when being let out to go to potty. I don't notice any obvious signs or symptoms of illness or pain, since she is eating and drinking. It seems the only time that she is not in distress is when she is on her bed inside the house.

I have 2 other dogs that she has lived with for 7 years and she has no interest in them either. Typically they all get along very well, play together. One of the other dogs is her sibling (Zoe) and she seems to notice the change in behavior also, in that she tries to lick Sadi's face or ears which Sadi usually enjoys, but has not the past week.

Has anyone else experienced this type of change in behavior? There doesn't seem to be any incident that may have caused this change. I think that a vet visit may be the next move, she may be in some sort of pain that I am not aware of.

Yogi · 12-26-2010

At this point in time you have already addressed what needs to be done. Anytime a dog suddenly changes its behavior, it is time for a vet visit and full check up including blood work up. Dogs are able to talk to us in a sense when you think about it. They give physical clues as to the way they are feeling. In this case, appears the dog is stating it does not feel well. Good luck with the vet visit.

CorkyMax · 12-26-2010

I agree with Yogi--It is time to see the vet. It may be arthritis or something else and she could very well be in some pain--Dogs sometimes do not show pain as it is a sign of weakness to them.

I am wondering what breed(s) of dog she is?

I have the feeling that your vet could prescribe a pain med and it would prob. be Rimadyl! I am giving you a link to a thread in here on that med. Please be aware of the dangers of this med. Please Do not Give Rimadyl (carprofen)--CAN KILL