Why is my older dog suddenly stealing food and eating paper?

Question

Zeus has always been greedy, so his meals are carefully weighed out and he has to be monitored during meal times otherwise he may steal his brothers' food. He never tried raiding the kitchen...this recently changed. He'll even eat paper serviettes! He's just the right weight now, but always puts on weight when my house sitter cares for him! He is fairly active and is very jealous if anyone gets close to me. Is the jealousy and food raiding due to the fact that he is getting older? Black dog. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 years and 10 months old

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Dogs can develop habits just like humans. It’s possible Zeus was unaware that he could reach the human food until recently. Dogs learn by cause-and-effect. He jumped on the counter, got something to eat and that is a positive experience for him. He will likely continue this behavior because it is a positive experience every time. You must prevent him from having this experience or else he will just continue it. Sometimes increases in appetite can be related to endocrine disease. You may have his blood tested to look for hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Why is my older dog suddenly stealing food and eating paper?

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