[Lara's mom]

Does anybody know why a Border Collie (9 years old) would all of a sudden become aggressive toward other dogs in the family? My cousin has young grandchildren that she babysits for and she's really concerned that the dog may become aggressive toward the children. She's afraid for the other dogs and for the grandchildren. The family is considering having her PTS. She would be very grateful for any suggestions that she could try before taking this horrible step. I know she'd try anything she could do herself. She can't afford a professional trainer. Any help would be appreciated.

[lulusmom]

There are a number of medical conditions that can be the root cause of sudden behavioral changes. I think it would be wise for your cousin to have her furbaby checked out thoroughly by a vet. A senior panel, including thyroid panel, is a good start.

[Yogi]

as lulusmom noted, it is something that should be done anytime a dog changes its behavior. A vet check after 6 to 7 should be done if not yearly every 6 months to ensure there are no hidden issues with hopes to catch them early if there are. Also, at 9, your are talking about a dog breed that is in early stages of senior years. Too much noise commotion etc can wear on it. How active has the dog been up til this episode?

[sandyh]

i agree i think it could be something medical.

[Lara's mom]

Thanks guys! I just called her and she's made an appointment with the vet. Hopefully, it isn't anything serious. Bandit is a lovely dog!!!

[Todd]

Originally Posted by michaelmast

There are a number of medical conditions that can be the root cause of sudden behavioral changes. I think it would be wise for your cousin to have her furbaby checked out thoroughly by a vet. A senior panel, including thyroid panel, is a good start.

Post is over 6 months old.

[Lara's mom]

She got some good advice from someone who breeds Border Collies out in Alberta where she lives and, Bandit's behaviour has improved at least 75%. My cousin is still working with her every day but, the smaller dogs in the house are much happier now and Bandit is a much nicer dog! Thanks for your replies!

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

She got some good advice from someone who breeds Border Collies out in Alberta where she lives and, Bandit's behaviour has improved at least 75%. My cousin is still working with her every day but, the smaller dogs in the house are much happier now and Bandit is a much nicer dog! Thanks for your replies!

Glad to hear things are working out for your cousin.

[Lara's mom]

Thanks but, the Border Collie in question belongs to my cousin Cheryl in Alberta. She has three other dogs - don't remember the breeds but, they're all small.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

Thanks but, the Border Collie in question belongs to my cousin Cheryl in Alberta. She has three other dogs - don't remember the breeds but, they're all small.

Lucky's the same way. She tends to act up with the little dogs but is fine with dogs her size and larger. Little dogs seem to be feisty, don't they?

[Lara's mom]

I know my Jacks don't take crap from anyone!!!

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

I know my Jacks don't take crap from anyone!!!

LOL! They are crazy little dogs! Check out this vid. The dog HATES Sweet Home Alabama. LOL;

YouTube- My Crazy Jack Russell "Milo" HATES Lynyrd Skynyrd

YouTube- My Crazy Jack Russell "Milo" HATES Lynyrd Skynyrd

[Lara's mom]

You know, I think he's wrong. It looks to me as if Milo is singing along with "Sweet Home Alabama."

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

You know, I think he's wrong. It looks to me as if Milo is singing along with "Sweet Home Alabama."

That's what I thought. LOL.