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Why is my older dog suddenly clingy? Is it age, anxiety, or illness?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 9 years and 3 months old | 7 lbs

Why would my dog be so clingy all of a sudden?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 15th, 2018

HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There can be multiple reasons for a dog to suddenly act clingy: fear, separation anxiety, and medical conditions. Medical conditions could be: pain, anal gland issues, fleas, overall nausea from kidney or liver disease, brain tumor or as some dogs age they develop cognitive dysfunction or doggie dementia. If Snicker's behavior persists then I recommend an exam and possibly blood work be done by your Vet. Sadly his symptoms are non-specific and can mean many different things. I hope this helps and I wish you and Sage the best!

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