Can a dog's dental pain cause separation anxiety and clingy behavior?

Question

My mom has adopted a small dog from an animal shelter and 2 months in cannot leave his side. He whines and howls the second she’s out of his sight. The vet has also said he has an absyss and rotten teeth that need to be extracted but that dogs have a high pain threshold so will be fine until for a few months without intervention. My question is if his dental issues could cause this behavioral clinginess as the dogs behavior means she cannot live a normal life right now and is causing more stress. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 6 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I would think those teeth should be taken out now, they will be extremely painful to Tigger and it shouldn't wait. As for the anxiety, he may have separation anxiety. Being sick can cause a dog to be clingy, but it may be a behavioral issue as well. I'd get his teeth treated immediately, rotten teeth should never be left in because they will cause other issues. If that vet won't do it now, take him into another vet.

Can a dog's dental pain cause separation anxiety and clingy behavior?

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