Worried About Pup's Behavior

[sarahkw]

Hi all - I've posted here a few times over the years and you all have been so helpful that I'm hoping you can help me here!

Knox turned 9 on 7/2. Other than luxating patellas and allergies, he's been in good health. For the last 10 or so days though, he's been off his food. He went from all but asking for it to being meh about kibble - unless I sat in the floor and held his bowl for him - more or less overnight. He's done this before, but it's never lasted this long.

I took him to the vet on 7/5. The vet saw nothing of concern, his bloodwork came back perfect, and he's scheduled for a dental on 8/4.

We went to a dental specialist yesterday for a second look at his mouth. She agreed with our vet that his teeth aren't that bad and recommended the dental and suggested an ultrasound, "just in case." We have that scheduled for 7/26.

I've tried a few "tricks" to get him to eat. He ate a scrambled egg two days, spit it out today (today's didn't have cheese...). I made him chicken and rice last night. He ate it then, hasn't touched it tonight. HOWEVER. He nearly took my hand off when I was eating my dinner. He's been very interested in *my* food, not his.

He's otherwise acting fine. Wants to play, barks at noises. He might be laying down a little more often, but I'm honestly not sure if it's a marked change or me being paranoid. I suffer from anxiety and I've been having a "spell" for a few weeks now so it could be that.

The only other notable thing: He's been a real pain about going into my bedroom when I leave the house during these last 10 or so days. He usually follows me into the room, takes his treat, and I see him in a few hours. He's been darting for the door every time I leave and 50/50 on if he eats the treat or waits until I get back to gobble it down. It took me 3 tries to get out the door the first time today, 2 the second.

His regular vet wants to take a wait and see approach. He's going to check back in on Saturday. He thinks Knox is playing me for food and/or picking up on my anxiety given how well he's checked out, but did say to go ahead and keep the ultrasound appt.

Any thoughts/suggestions on what to check for?

Thank you so much if you've read this novel!

[barneysmommmy]

It sounds like you are covering all the bases. I personally think they can sense our emotions. Is there a reason he has to be in your bedroom when you leave? If not maybe try leaving him out.

As for food, my yorkies go through stages like this. However if I can force myself to leave them on their kibble they usually do better. Once they think they can rule the menu, they become Yorkshire terrorists holding me hostage for human food.

[Lovetodream88]

It kind of sounds like something might have scared him or is bothering him about your room. Did you change anything at all? Even the tiniest thing could be a big deal. He also can sense your moods.