Dog behaviour changes and how to support them

Noticing a change in your dog’s behaviour can be upsetting and stressful. Often, owners are unsure on the best way to deal with behaviour changes or why this has happened. Whilst some behaviour changes may be down to age or new situations, others can show signs of discomfort, health issues or stress for your dog.

In this guide, we explore common dog behaviour changes, what causes them and when to seek advice, giving you a better understanding of behaviour changes and how to help your dog. In this article:

1. What are common dog behaviour changes?
2. What causes sudden changes in dog behaviour?
3. When to be concerned about behaviour changes
4. How diet and treats influence behaviour
5. Do calming treats support anxious dogs?
6. Supporting your dog through behaviour changes

What are common dog behaviour changes?

There are several changes in dog behaviours which are completely normal and expected. However, regardless of whether a change is common or unusual, it doesn't always mean there is a problem. Every dog has their own personality, and slow or gradual changes may be completely normal to owners who know their pet well. Some common behaviour changes in dogs include:

• Increased anxiety or nervousness
• Clinginess or becoming more dependent on owners
• Withdrawal or hiding away
• Aggression towards people or other dogs
• Excessive barking or whining
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Reduced interest in walks or play
• Destructive chewing or scratching around the home
• Toileting accidents despite previous house training

These behaviours don’t always indicate a problem. For example, sleeping more may be linked to older age, whilst situations such as new family members, moving house or events such as fireworks can temporarily affect behaviour.

If you do notice a change in your dog’s behaviour, it’s important to consider why this has happened, how severe it is and what you can do to help your dog.

What causes sudden changes in dog behaviour?

Sudden changes can happen for any reason, but may often be affected but your dog’s current environment, health and daily routine.

Environment changes

Dogs thrive on consistency. That means when there is a lot of changes, dogs may not adjust as quickly which could lead to different behaviours. This could include:

• Moving home
• New babies
• New pets
• Lack of company
• Unfamiliar noises

Environment changes are often unavoidable, but ensuring your dog still is being looked after, played with, exercised and given the attention they need can reduce the stress of environment changes.

Pain and illnesses

Behaviour changes can be the first sign of a physical decline or illness. Conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, ear infections and digestive problems could all lead to a change. In addition, older dogs who develop more serious conditions such as cancer, could be more lethargic, with lumps and weight loss.

If you think a behaviour change is potentially being caused by a pain or illness, it’s best to speak to your vet as soon as possible.

Ageing

Another behaviour change that is out of your control, is dogs getting older. As dogs get older, it could affect:

• Hearing
• Eyesight
• Mobility
• Cognitive function

This leads to dogs becoming confused at night, sleeping more frequently, having less energy and forgetting or not responding to some commands. The best thing to support older dogs is adhering to their reduced mobility, using dog food and treats that support joint health and overall energy levels, and ensuring they still get regular exercise.

Change in routine

Whilst most dogs should be fine with a small change in routine, more sensitive dogs could find this difficult. Maintaining similar walking times, feeding schedules, and working hours for social interaction can avoid behaviour changes caused by a change in routine.

Scares and trauma

Not all behaviour changes are gradual or affected by life events. Traumatic events such as an attack could affect your dog’s confidence, whilst events such as fireworks and loud noises also cause a lot of trouble to many dogs.

If you notice this, try to protect your dog by limiting noise and keeping them safe from aggressive behaviour, whether this comes from other dogs or people.

When to be concerned about behaviour changes

Not every behavioural change is a problem or cause for concern. However there are some situations where speaking to your vet may be necessary. This includes:

• Becoming aggressive
• Stops eating or drinking
• Appearing to be in pain
• Significant changes in mobility
• Showing confusion or disorientation
• Repeated toileting accidents
• Persistent anxiety

This shouldn’t be treated simply as ‘bad’ behaviour. Speak to your vet, and if there are no medical causes, using positive reinforcement techniques and training to ward-off unwanted habits from becoming long-term issues.

How diet and treats influence behaviour

Diet alone may not solve behavioural issues. However, good nutrition does play a huge part in your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients supports energy levels and helps your dog feel their best.

Natural treats can also be a great option. Natural treats are often single ingredient, air dried and high in protein. This supports with:

• Reducing stress due to long-lasting treats
• Energy levels
• Preventing digestive issues
• High value rewards for training

The air-drying process ensures natural treats retain their flavour, nutrients and vitamins suitable for dogs, whilst also improving their life span.

Do calming treats support anxious dogs?

Part of using natural treats is supporting dogs suffering with anxiety and stress. This can be closely linked with behaviours such as barking, panting, pacing, and struggling to settle. Whilst calming treats are not a substitute for behavioural training, they can be useful in certain situations. This includes:

• Fireworks
• Thunderstorms
• Long car journeys
• Moving house
• Separation from owners / isolation
• Guests in the house

Our range of calming and long-lasting dog treats keep your dog mentally stimulated, whilst also supporting with dental health. It’s important to monitor your dog's chewing habits and choose treats appropriate for their size and breed, but this can support massively with anxiety and restless behaviour.

Supporting your dog through behaviour changes

If you’ve noticed behavioural changes in your dog, there are many ways to support them. This includes:

• Positive reinforcement
• Mental stimulation through treats and games
• Predictable routines
• Regular exercise
• Using natural treats

If you are unsure on how to deal with behaviour changes, please consult your vet. If you are looking for healthy, natural treats to feed your dogs, shop online at T.Forrest today.