Behavior change in dogs can draw the attention of many tutors, who often don’t know what to do. That’s why this post will talk about the dog’s weird behavior and how and when it can indicate that the dog is not well, needing help from a veterinarian.
My dog is acting weird
When a dog changes its behavior, it is important to identify if this behavior is a natural behavior of the canine species, or if something is wrong that is happening to the dog, so it is important to consult a veterinarian.
When dogs change their behavior, something could be wrong. Main causes of behavior change in dogs.
- Change in the environment;
- Temperature change;
- Absence of someone at home;
- Illnesses.
Change in the environment
When there are changes in the environment, such as moving house, renovations and even moving furniture, dogs can become more anxious and even stressed. These changes in the environment can lead to a change in the dog’s behavior, which can become more restless, suspicious, and even more aggressive.
Sudden changes in the dog’s diet can also lead to gastrointestinal problems resulting in diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting and even lack of appetite and prostration.
Temperature change
Higher temperatures tend to make dogs more agitated; many dogs reduce their appetite and start to ingest more water. In colder times, dogs tend to be calmer, preferring to spend the day warm in their homes. Many dogs may lose their appetite, while others may eat normally.
Absence of someone at home
When dogs are left alone at home, they can feel more anxious and stressed, which makes them more agitated. Very anxious dogs can scratch their paws a lot, and even other parts of the body until they are injured. In addition to being able to destroy some objects and furniture.
Dogs that lose a tutor or some other companion animal can change their behavior due to the absence of the company, so they can become more prostate, they cannot feed. Some dogs still have diarrhea and vomiting. These conditions can lead to immunosuppression that favors the appearance of opportunistic diseases.
Illnesses
All diseases, when not treated properly, can lead to several symptoms responsible for the change in dogs’ behavior.
The main symptoms of illness in dogs are:
- Fever;
- Diarrhea;
- Apathy;
- vomiting;
- Muscle weakness;
- And others.
What to do when a dog shows strange behavior?
Whenever the animal shows a sudden change in behavior, try to understand the reason for this change and take it to the veterinarian.
Many of the changes in the environment, temperature and the absence of the tutor can favor the reduction of immunity in dogs, thus favoring the appearance of opportunistic diseases that must be treated properly, preventing the worsening of diseases in dogs that can lead to the animals death.
In cases of diseases, several signs can be shown by dogs, and these signs should be reported to the veterinarian. Some tests may be necessary for the correct diagnosis of the disease and thus the appropriate treatment can be carried out in dogs.
How to prevent behavior change in dogs
Periodic consultations with the veterinarian can prevent the appearance of some diseases in dogs, through vaccines, deworming and checkup exams.
For changes in the environment, it is important that they are made progressively, avoiding sudden changes. Progressive changes can help animals adapt to the new environment, avoiding animal health problems.
In the case of temperature change, air conditioning for hot days and heaters for cold days can keep the ambient temperature stable, preventing the animals from showing sudden changes in behavior.
When dogs are missing someone at home, training and exercises can help dogs improve strange behavior. Dog training can be a distraction and a form of energy expenditure, preventing dogs from exhibiting different behaviors than their natural behaviors.
Conclusion
Changes in the behavior of dogs should be investigated to avoid worsening the health of the animals. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a veterinarian who will perform some tests on the dogs for the best diagnosis and treatment for dogs that behave weird.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): My dog is acting weird
Why does the dog change behavior?
Several factors may be linked to changes in behavior in dogs, including age, health and changes in the environment.
How to know if the dog is in pain?
Dogs can show pain by several signs such as:
- Apathy and isolation;
- Lack of appetite;
- Vocalization;
- Shrunk back;
- Lameness;
- Walking resistance;
- Aggression.
Is it normal for the dog to hide?
The dog’s hiding can be a behavior that is usually normal and harmless. Dogs basically hide in comfortable places to avoid being disturbed. Some bitches at the time of parturition also hide, always in safe places, avoiding leaving their puppies exposed.
References
Coppinger, R., & Coppinger, L. (2001). Dogs: A startling new understanding of canine origin, behavior & evolution. Simon and Schuster.
Picture from flickr.com
