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Why is my senior dog suddenly snapping at children after being good?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 60 lbs

I have an 8 year old dog who has always been great with kids. Suddenly this week she has had two incidents with young children. Both were the same scenario, she was approached by a child and snapped without warning. Afterward she layed back down as if nothing had happened. I am very worried as she has never done anything like this before and I feel like I am going to be forced to put her down. She doesn't seem to have any other symptoms and is acting normal with my family.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I understand your concern! Until you get to the bottom of this, for safety reasons, I recommend that Lily not be allowed around children. She should be put in another room that she can not get out of and kids can not get in. I recommend that you make an appointment with your Vet. At 8 1/2 years old she is approaching her senior years and new problems can crop up. Things like arthritis, UTI's and low thyroid. She could be painful or not feeling well but not showing you in the obvious ways. Bring urine and a fecal sample to the appointment. Ask your Vet to do senior blood work and evaluate her for arthritis. If her physical and blood work is normal then I recommend training and anti-anxiety medications. Sadly she never may be trustworthy with children. I wish you and Lily the best of luck!

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