Dog illustration by Kaelen Felix for 360 MAGAZINE.

Your Dog’s Five Most Critical Behaviors

Is your dog acting normal? More importantly, are you aware of any signs which show that your dog is not acting how they should be? Behavioral changes can sometimes be crucial when it comes to your dog’s health. Thus, it’s always worth paying attention to any differences and taking your furry friend to a vet if you have a hunch that something is wrong. After all, this may end up saving their life. Read on for more information!

Aggression without warning

Aggression from canines doesn’t always have to come in the form of a full-on attack – it could be growling, teeth-baring, or barking. Just because your dog doesn’t bite or attack doesn’t mean that other forms of aggressive behavior are appropriate. This is especially true if aggressive behavior is displayed toward the owner. 

Changes in appetite

A change in appetite may be of some concern, whether your dog is constantly hungry or completely put off their food. Changes in appetites often occur during or after significant transformations – such as moving house or traveling. If they feel uncomfortable with the transition, the induced stress may trigger them to eat differently. Also, more minor changes – for example, simply getting a new food bowl – can cause your furry friend to need more time to adjust. Saying this, there might always be a bigger problem causing this change in appetite, such as a disease. Thus, go to your local vet if you feel worried.

Incontinence after spaying

Spraying incontinence is a common problem which is probably also one of the worst. After all, no one wants their carpets, walls, and furniture ruined by urination! Dog in heat is particularly prone to bloody discharge. Once the vet has ruled out the prospect of any health issues for the dog’s incontinence, the only way to approach this issue is to train the dog. If the training, positive reinforcement, and set limits don’t work, it’s time to go back to the vet or a professional dog trainer.

An increase or decrease in weight

An increase in your canine’s weight could be due to inadequate exercise, a poor diet, metabolic changes, and specific types of illnesses. Illnesses can also affect weight loss, including heart disease, drug reactions, and stress.

The depression

While thinking about your pet suffering from depression is uncomfortable, you cannot ignore it. Signs of this include lengthy sleeping times, a decreased appetite, reduced playing, and clinginess. Depression in dogs can be triggered by significant changes, such as moving house or losing a loved one. If you are worried about this problem, it’s worth speaking to a vet.

Conclusion

Hopefully, now you know the importance of paying attention to your dog’s critical behaviors. If you notice an alteration in your pet or are simply worried about how they do something, it’s always worth speaking to a professional for reassurance!