Senior dog suddenly aggressive, panicking when family leaves home?

Question

Senior Terrier Mix suddly becomes aggressive with paniced barking, jumping up & trying to grab/bite when i or other family members want to leave my house. he seems extremely panicked, like a young child when mom is leaving. hes about 12 years old, basically healthy except for multiple external (possibly internal) fluid filled cysts & a few small firmer ones. He has shown signs of Arthritis in his hip area & front legs. Trying to get any medicine (pills or liquid) is mostly impossible. Thnx. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 8 months old | 50 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Any sudden change in behavior, especially in a senior pet, is worrisome. This may be a neurological problem, like early onset cognitive dysfunction, or the beginning of a loss of senses ( hearing, sight ) that may be causing his reaction. You really need to have Buster fully evaluated to see if there is a medical reason for this strange behavior, or if there is a medication, diet change, treatment or behavior modification that might help. I am sure if there is a need for any treatment, a method to get it into him will be found, or perhaps a consult with a behavioral specialist should be tried first. Hopefully, you can find a solution to his distress. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Senior dog suddenly aggressive, panicking when family leaves home?

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