6 Important Behavioral Changes In Your Dog That You Need To Watch Out For

While our pups cannot speak to us in a language we’re fluent in, their behaviors often indicate everything that they cannot say.

As such, it’s vital that pup Mommies and Daddies recognize worrying behavioral changes in their canine children. Here are six critical changes in behavior to look out for.

1. Changes in appetite

A pup who suddenly isn’t satisfied after a full meal, suddenly wants snacks more often than before, or has a rapid decrease or increase in appetite may be indicating that there is an underlying medical problem. Appetite changes are symptoms for many illnesses.

2. Changes in weight

Sudden decreases or increases in weight despite minimal eating changes could be a symptom of a serious disease like cancer, diabetes, or kidney and thyroid issues.

3. Panting for no reason

When it’s hot outside or your pup has been running around, panting is normal. But if it’s cold or your pup has performed no physical activity yet is still huffing away, it could be a sign of a problem. Panting is indicative of not just heat, but stress, implying that your pup may be experiencing emotional or physical pain.

4. Lethargy

This is almost always a sign of trouble. If you know your pup well, you can spot changes in energy levels of even the laziest pup. Of course, tiredness following exercise or outings is to be expected, but unusual lethargy for no reason is worrying.

5. Aggression

Sudden aggressive behavior is a result of an underlying issue. In older pups, it can even be a symptom of brain tumors or happen after seizures. There can also be other reasons, like fear due to loss of senses, or pain that causes a pup to lash out.

6. Hiding

If your pup has stopped running to greet you and suddenly prefers to stay out of the way, or if he stops being social, then it could be a sign of pain or illness. This is especially true in a pup who is usually very friendly.

If you notice any of these behavioral changes, immediately schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Share so other pup parents can see!

By: Bill Geist