Why is my 6-year-old dog suddenly acting strange and panting?

Question

My female, 6yo Maltese is a rescue 3 years ago. Recently she has started strange behaviors. Last night was the worst. In my bed she walked on my head, jumps at me, never let me sleep. Today she won’t eat, jumps at me, will not lay down, pants none stop and more. Took her to Vet who ran bloodwork and X-rays. All was normal. Vet diagnoses is my dog is trying to be an alpha dog. Please advise of other possibilities. Thank you, Paula. Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello Paula, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It does not sound to me like she is just trying to assert dominance over you. That would be very odd for a 6 year old dog to just start acting like that out of the blue. Her symptoms, to me, sound more like she has pain somewhere like her back. When dogs are panting excessively it is most often due to pain and/or anxiety. I suggest you get all her blood testing results and copies of her X-rays and go to another vet for a second opinion. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Why is my 6-year-old dog suddenly acting strange and panting?

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