My senior dog is having accidents and snapping. Is it his age?

Most often behavioral changes in an older dog are related to pain, an underlying health problem, or cognitive dysfunction (like dementia). If Thai also has a lump or mass in his side this could be uncomfortable and might make him prone to snapping but is probably not the main cause of his behavior change. Painful conditions like arthritis certainly effect older dogs quality of life and can make them grouchy. Cognitive dysfunction occurs when older dogs start to get a little confused. There are medications and supplements that may be helpful for both conditions. I suggest having a veterinarian examine Thai to see if he has arthritis or other painful condition causing him to snap. The veterinarian can also check the lump to make sure it isn't a serious issue. Please remember there are no safe over the counter pain medications for dogs so your veterinarian will need to prescribe the pain medications if they are deemed necessary. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I hope Thai is feeling more like himself soon!

The first thing to do is have her checked by the veterinarian. It's possible there is an infection or other abnormality that is causing the behavior. Sometimes there is a neurological problem and the pet is not aware of what is happening. Dementia can also cause these symptoms. Some conditions have treatment with medications. Since Khloe can't talk and tell you what is happening, it's best to play it safe. I hope this helps.

The sudden temperament change can be due to stress from a new baby or maybe an indication of pain or a neurological problem such as tumor or dementia. You can talk with your vet about medicine for pain but with a new baby it is probably safest to not chance it and always keep them separate. If the medicines do not help and her behavior continues then I am afraid your only other option is considering euthanasia for everyone’s safety. I am so sorry you are faced with this!

Hello and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Sometimes as a dog ages they develop something called cognitive dysfunction (like dementia) where they forget their training. This may be the cause of Tot's accidents. A supplement like Senilife may help withi this. Pain and arthritis can also lead to accident in an older dog as they have a harder time going outside and positioning to go to the bathroom. Sometimes urinary tract infection, internal medical issues or digestive problems may also cause accidents in the house. A visit to your Veterinarian may help to sort out what the cause of Tot's accidents are. Until you are able to take him to the vet you may want to take him outside more frequently to avoid accidents.

Sudden changes in behavior can sometimes signal a health issue, and accidents in an elderly dog can be caused by a number of things. Bladder infections can cause sudden accidents in the house, while changes to the muscles and nerves around the bladder may lead to incontinence-type accidents with dribbling or small puddles happening. Cognitive changes in elderly dogs (similar to human dementia) can also sometimes cause a pet to "forget" their training such as potty training, leading to accidents. It is a good idea to schedule a veterinary exam to see if any of these could be a possible cause and to find a treatment plan that helps.

Many times when an older dog starts to have urinary or fecal accidents there is usually a health issue going on. Sometimes this behavior is pain related. Sometimes it's related to a dementia like condition called cognitive dysfunction. It's definitely a good idea to take Ricky to see the veterinarian so they can determine what might be the cause. There are pain medications and supplements that can be prescribed if necessary. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I hope this issue resolves quickly!

I recommend to have Hannah examined by the veterinarian for a urinary tract infection. This could be the cause of the symptoms. Also monitor her for any signs of dementia. Here is a link with things to look for: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cognitive-dysfunction-senility-in-dogs/ I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.