PAIN
Doreen Potter 
Could this be causing your dogs unwanted behaviour?
The first thing I ask anyone that enquires about how I can help them with their dogs behaviour is.....................
Can you please get a vet check.IS HE IN PAIN?
WHAT........ so you want me to pay for a vet check on top of what I may be paying you ?????
Actually I may be doing you and your dog a huge favour.
There has been numerous studies that relates pain in dogs to their behaviour.
Whether that is reactivity to other dogs.
Pulling on the lead
Maybe snapping at you when you want them to move from a certain place like the sofa.
Maybe he is barking more and seems more sensitive to noise.
Or lots of subtle signs, maybe he is just a bit grumpy, or less tolerant of your other dog. He could even not want to go for his walks, when he usually is so excited about the sight of his lead.
This could all be down to pain. Just think back to when you had a head ache all day, or had an injury that caused you constant pain. Did you notice that you were maybe a bit snappy with the kids or partner ?It can really affect your mood, especially if it is chronic pain.
Our dogs cannot tell us if they are in pain. They can hide pain so well. Even your vet may not be able to diagnose a painful area, because your dog may be anxious at the vets, and adrenaline masks pain. Your vet should offer you a pain trial.
What is the benefit of a pain trial?
Well, if it was pain causing your dog to behave the way he has been, those behaviours should stop.
If your dog is in pain, he is now getting relief. So yes I may have lost out on a new client, but you will have made my day.
You have a happier dog that is now pain free.
ps............... Any sudden onset of a new behaviour you should always get a vet check.
Categories: : Dog Behaviour, Reactivity