My dog is acting strange and withdrawn after a fight. How to help?

Question

My dog, a Cocker mix recently got into a small fight with another dog, and the other dog may have nipped him on the neck, but there was no bleeding or trauma. These past few days, my dog hasn’t been acting like himself, he’s been whining and hiding everytime he sees another dog, he barely barks, he’s missing the energy he used to have. He used to run down the stairs to greet me, now he just slowly comes down. How can I help this behavior? Can I get him back to normal? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 50 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Nate! I think an important first step is to have your Vet examine Nate. He could be painful at the site of the bite, despite no outward wounds. He could have neck (muscle) pain like whip lash or be generally sore. That could explain the lack of energy and slowly coming down the stairs. I strongly feel that you need to be sure he is actually healthy before considering this a new behavioral problem from being attacked. Most dogs aren't overly traumatized mentally after getting in to fights but it is possible. If your vet finds nothing wrong with Nate they can discuss anti-anxiety medications and behavioral modifications to help him get back to normal. Good luck!

My dog is acting strange and withdrawn after a fight. How to help?

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