Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my dog suddenly clingy? Is it my pregnancy or her health?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 43 lbs

Bella has been very clingy lately . She always has to be by and all over someone. I am 30 weeks pregnant , but it’s not only me she’s attached to so I feel like that has nothing to do with it. But like she’s never been clingy. Is this a normal change ? She’ll still play and run when we take her to the parks and she’s not acting weird other than that. Still eating and drinking but could my hormones really throw her off that much? I feel bad ! Lol

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2018

Hello, sorry to hear about Bella. Dogs may indeed sense a change in people which can than indirectly affect their behaviors. However, I would recommend having Bella evaluated as she may herself be undergoing a false pregnancy. This could cause behavioral changes in her as well. Other health issues that may cause her to have behavioral changes but are less likely may include cushings disease. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Pets, especially dogs, can become very materialistic when their owners are pregnant. The hormones that you are producing can absolutely be picked up on by your pets senses. Especially since Bella isn’t spayed. She likely will go back to her normal behavior once the baby is born. Congratulations by the way! I hope everything else works out well. Take care.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?
Frustrated trying to tell if your rat is pregnant from a photo? A Petco vet explains why a physical exam or sonogram is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored