Why is my old dog confused and aggressive despite a normal vet check?

Question

My dog is older, he's almost 12. Lately he has been showing signs of confusion and aggression. Not towards the family, but our other pets. He growls anytime he is touched. Our vet had done a "senior panel" and assured us he's healthy, but these psychological symptoms make me think otherwise. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 12 years old | 68 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Large breed dogs rarely live to be 12 years or older. Even if his blood testing (senior panel) is normal that doesn't mean everything is OK with him. Blood testing is not the only diagnostic tool we have to tell if an animal is healthy. It's a good place to start but it is not the end all, be all. I suggest you have some x-rays done of his chest and his abdomen. He may arthritis in his spine or other joints that is making him crabby. He may be showing signs of congnitive dysfunction (dementia). There are medications that may help him depending on what is going on. The first thing is ruling out medical issues (like arthritis, a tumor in the abdomen, an enlarged heart, etc). If nothing obvious is found then it is likely dementia and again, medications are available that may help him.

Why is my old dog confused and aggressive despite a normal vet check?

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