My dog is suddenly barking and jumping excessively. What's going on?

One of your statements may point to the reason for Henry's behavioral changes. You say "He normally wasn't like this before." We need to know . . . before what? Think very hard about what changed at the time this behavior started. It could be as complicated as his being abused by someone to your simply rearranging the living room furniture. Dogs are creatures of habit. Did you move to a new home or area? Did anyone move in or out of your home (even kids going off to college and returning)? Do you have new neighbors, or area kids that are teasing or tormenting him? Did you get a new pet? Please give this a lot of thought, and send us your question again with any ideas you might have about what may have triggered this aggression. You can also click on the prompt to start a consult, where we can discuss this in depth.

I certainly sympathize with your situation. Since Digby is 7 years old and this is a new behavior, I would start by having your veterinarian examine Digby to make sure there isn't a medical condition that is contributing to the change in his behavior. Your veterinarian may recommend trying medication depending on Digby's situation and behavior. If everything is normal on examination, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation for a behaviorist or trainer. You will need to commit to a training regimen to change Digby's behavior when he sees another dog. This can be a long process, but will be worth it. Good luck! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hello, Duke may be hearing or sensing something that could be causing him to be alarmed. If nothing, then make sure Duke did not get into any medications at home that could alter his mentation. If this does not change and he continue to show this behavior then have Duke evaluated by a veterinarian soon. I would have Duke evaluated tonight if his behavioral changes worsen or if you note any other signs including weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or worsening aggression. Hope this helps and best of luck.

First thing you need to do is to get Yoko to your vet for an exam. Often times when older dogs have a significant behavior change it is due to an underlying medical condition. So, you need to rule that out first. She could be having vision or hearing issues. She may be in pain somewhere (arthritis). If nothing is found by the vet then you really need to seek the help of a professional IN-HOME dog trainer. Hope this helps.

I would be concerned that she hurt herself somehow. Unfortunately, without a physical examination it is hard to say exactly what is causing her symptoms. I would consider calling your veterinarian if she is still having this issue when you wake up in the morning and having her seen. They can perform a physical to give us a better idea as to what is going on with her. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Abrupt changes in behavior like this in dogs is very concerning to me. I would be worried about some underlying neurologic disorder that could be going on. If nothing has changed at home, her routine, or the environment in general, then I would suspect an underlying medical issue. I would recommend taking her to be examined by your veterinarian and possibly having some lab work performed so they can try and determine what is going on. Your vet may recommend further work up by veterinary neurologist or may recommend a behavior modification drugs like Xanax or Prozac. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

It is possible she has a source of pain such as an anal gland abscess or spinal/joint pain causing her distress. I recommend you video the episodes and schedule a full physical exam for Opal with your vet to identify the location of the isse