My dog is suddenly scared and withdrawn after boarding. What's wrong?

Question

i have a king charles cavalier , she is 7 this year and we have just been away for two weeks and sent her to a dog minder that we had sent her to once before, she usually does sulk for a few days when we get back cos she is basically human but this times she's acting really upset. when we go to stroke her she seems scared and cowardly, she won't sleep with me in my room anymore , she's stays in her bed most of the time at night which she never did, what do you think is wrong ? Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed

Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry to hear that you are experiencing these issues with Poppy. I am sure it's very upsetting for you. From what you are describing it seems that the most likely cause for the change in her behaviours is that she is still adjusting to your return after a long period of separation. This might be more likely if this was the longest time you have left her before. I would give her time to feel more secure and potentially try the following; Increase exercise Increased attention and interaction Interactive toys or chews for periods when you leave the house Positive reinforcement for interactions It will take time, patience and a dedication to the process for these techniques to help. It is also possible that she experienced a negative situation while you were away, and perhaps a call to the dog minder to ask if anything out of the ordinary occurred could be helpful. If the behaviours continue, consider a trip to the vet to make sure there aren't any underlaying medical causes. If not, consider a consult with a behaviour expert

My dog is suddenly scared and withdrawn after boarding. What's wrong?

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