My adopted dog is sad and thinks her toy is a puppy. What to do?

Hi there. It sounds like Rose may be having a false pregnancy. This is related to unbalanced hormone levels. Honestly, if you are not planning on breeding her you should have her spayed. That will stop this behavior. Not only that but spaying decreases the risks of mammary cancer and uterine infections (pyometra) both of which can be life threatening. There is really no treatment you can do for this at home. Usually these episodes last 2-3 weeks. If it lasts longer than that you should get her examined by your vet. My only recommendation would be to try a calming therapy like DAP. http://dapdiffuser.com/ https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/comfort-zone-diffuser-with-dap-for-dogs

Poor pup! If she's feeling lonely, some things that can help mimic littermates include wrapping a warm water bottle or ticking clock in a cloth and letting her sleep with it. This can help mimic the warmth and heartbeat of a friend. Spending time socializing with her, and perhaps offering a fun toy or puzzle toy to help keep her occupied, or playing a soothing radio or TV station can help her to relax some and not feel so lonely. If she doesn't perk up, or shows any signs of illness in addition to this, ruling out any health issues with a vet checkup is also always a good idea.

Hello, and thank you for your question. I'm sorry to hear that Honey is having some trouble adjusting to her new home. Hopefully you brought with you a few familiar items with you from Honey's previous home, like a blanket or bed. Make sure she has access to that. Offer her plenty of cuddles and attention. Offer her usual food and treats from your hand, to help gain her trust. If Honey is used to a crate, make sure you use a similar one in your home. Place her bed in there and she should quickly be drawn to it as a place of comfort and safety. I'd also look into a product called Adaptil, which is a canine pheromone that can help reduce stress and anxiety in new environments. Give it time. It is a difficult phase for Honey right now, but she should gradually get used to her new home and learn to love her new family, if you are patient, consistent, and offer her a nurturing loving home! Best of luck!

This isn't dangerous, but it is a little sad! You will just have to wait it out. I'd consider getting Sierrah spayed as dogs who have one false pregnancy are likely to experience another. Best of luck.

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Maya! Sometimes when a dog is spayed close to the start or the end of a heat cycle they can experience pregnancy signs (false pregnancy). This occurs due to a hormonal imbalance or sudden withdrawal of hormones. The body then thinks that it is pregnant when it is not. The dog will carry stuffed animals around like puppies, nest, act clingy or anxious, they can even have mammary gland development and produce milk! It is temporary but can last 2 months but can be shorter. I hope Maya feels better soon! https://www.merckvetmanual.com/reproductive-system/reproductive-diseases-of-the-female-small-animal/false-pregnancy-in-small-animals

Hi there. Sugar sounds like a very sweet girl. It seems to me that she really does like her banana toy. As long as she isn't guarding her toy or acting possessive - i.e. growling or snarling when someone tries to take the toy, or becoming aggressive when someone approaches - I think that is fine that she's found a toy that she likes. Just make sure too that she doesn't chew it into pieces and swallow the pieces. I'd pay close attention to her when the baby is nearby to make sure she doesn't act aggressive if the baby crawls toward her, etc. Introduce them slowly. Dogs will definitely get jealous and feel left out with babies around because they do get less attention. Some things to try to make Sugar feel content and happy are Kong toys, or other treat dispensing toys, like a pickle pocket. She can be safely gated in her own area of the house where no one can bother when the baby comes to visit and get a special treat or just one of her meals this way. The treat dispensing toys will also help stimulate her mind and make her brain work, so she gets tired too. I think she just needs some positive reinforcement and special type of attention when the baby is around, as well as a slow and controlled introduction to the baby. I hope you find this answer helpful. Best of luck!

She could be having a false pregnancy but that would be extremely unusual in a 6 month old puppy. This could be an indication that she has a severe hormonal issue. I suggest you get her to the vet for an exam. You need to get his under control as soon as possible before he actions turn into serious aggression.