Why is my unspayed older dog digging, whining, and restless at night?

If you dog is an unspayed female, she could be pregnant or having a false pregnancy. According to petMD, false or pseudopregnancy "is a term used to denote a common condition in a non-pregnant female dog that is showing symptoms of pregnancy, lactation, or nursing, without producing puppies. The affected female dog shows these symptoms about a month or two after her estrus (heat) is over. A hormonal imbalance is thought to play a central role in affected female dogs. Depending on the severity of problem, the symptoms may last for more than a month." Affected dogs may display behavioral changes, including restlessness, nesting and mothering activity. Regardless of whether she is spayed or unspayed, it is important that you have her examined by a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical causes, with symptoms such as pain or discomfort, for her behavioral changes. http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/reproductive/c_dg_false_pregnancy

If Spoty isn't spayed but showed signs of pregnancy (weight gain, swelling of the mammary glands, nesting behavior, etc) it's possible there could be a phantom pregnancy going on, or even something else related to the reproductive tract such as an infection. Having her examined by a vet if you haven't already is a good idea to rule out any hormonal or reproductive issues, as well as any other underlying issues such as illness or injury causing her behavior. If you're in an area that is extremely hot, it may also be that Spoty is trying to cool off by laying in the mud. Extreme heat can make a dog more tired and lethargic, however if the temperature hasn't been too high or you're seeing other signs of illness, seeking vet care is best.

This sounds like territorial behavior. Dogs are naturally driven to mark their territory. You’re probably aware that dogs urinate on objects to claim them as their own, but that isn’t the only way to mark territory. Dogs have glands in their paws that leave a distinctive scent on bedding or other objects whenever they scratch. Both male and female dogs can do this. Dogs are more likely to return to a bedding spot if they already feel it’s theirs. This may be why scratching behaviors sometimes begin or intensify when a new pet or person has moved into the house, or there has been another type of major change in the household. Since this is a new dog to your house she is likely marking her territory. I see that listed her as not spayed. If she is pregnant and getting ready to have her puppies she may do this behavior as well. I sure hope she is not pregnant at 13 years of age! Hope this helps. Best wishes.

If your dog is whining or "digging" at bedding, it may be that she is attempting to nest with her favorite toys. Dogs that are unspayed may be showing signs at the beginning of a heat cycle (displaying nesting behavior to get things ready for puppies), however spayed dogs may also have this behavior just as a comforting factor. Digging helps create a nice soft bed, and bringing a toy means having something to cuddle! It may also be that your dog is feeling a little distressed or bored, especially if the behavior happens when you are doing something else (such as focused on another task, or out of the home). If this is the case, providing a nice place for your dog to rest (such as a big bed or a kennel) may help. Providing toys that also distract such as ones filled with treats or puzzles can also help with anxiety. Leaving behind a shirt or object that smells like you in the bed may also help to comfort your dog if she is anxious. If you are concerned about your dog's behavior and do not think it is related to anxiety or normal doggie behavior, it is always a good idea to make an appointment with your local vet. Your vet can perform a complete examination and rule out any signs of illness or pain to make sure everything is OK.

Hi, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear that Cagney is not doing well. With her being intact and having the discharge you are describing, I am particularly worried about a condition known as pyometra which is an infection within her uterus. While there are other possibilities, a pyometra is most likely. Unfortunately, this is not something that can wait until tomorrow. Please seek veterinary attention for Cagney as soon as possible tonight. If she does have a pyometra, her condition can go downhill rapidly without aggressive intervention. I hope this helps and that Cagney gets better soon!

Hi. Thanks for using PetCoach. Since she is not spayed my best guess is that she is having a false pregnancy. If you are not planning on breeding her my recommendation would be to get her spayed. ( https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/false-pregnancy-or-pseudopregnancy-in-dogs ) Best wishes.

You did not provide her age or tell us whether or not she is spayed. If she is not spayed she may be whining due to hormonal reasons. If this is a new behavior I suggest you take her to the vet for an exam to rule out any underlying medical reasons for this change in behavior.