Behavior Change

[David C.]

I don't know what has gotten into Zeke.   When he goes into his crate or gets under a blanket, he gets incredibly aggressive towards Zora.  It usually happens when they are in their crates sleeping and one of us walks into the room, although sometimes they fight for no reason.   If I startle him, Zeke "comes out swinging".  Luckily, it's all bark and no bite, but I'm scratching my head why this is going on.  The two of them have always been very agreeable to each other, with only occasional spats.  Now the "arguments" are a daily occurence, sometimes more than once.  Both are in good health and there seems to be no reason for this.  I have noticed when left to their own druthers they tend to stay away from each other, and there are times I find Zora outside the crate (we leave it open while we are around) with Zeke on the inside.   They've been together almost their entire lives.  I can't figure out why they are "arguing" now. 

The only thing I've noticed is that Zora is more ready to "stand her ground" against Zeke, who is the larger and more physical of the two.   Zeke is the alpha, but he usually defers to Zora.   For instance, Zora ALWAYS eats first, and then Zeke eats.   Or, he is reluctant to go outside unless Zora is with him.    However, when we walk. Zeke is out "on point" and Zora lags behind. 

[papbouv]

Sometimes when dogs all of a sudden get aggressive I would get a Thyroid panel done just to make sure his thyroid is not off, hate to say it sometimes brain tumors make a dog aggressive there I said it hated too but it might be possible,how old are they might be Alzheimer's dogs get their version of it Gizmo my Papillon had it. Sorry hope things get better might just seperate them for awhile absents makes the heart grow fonder Good Luck hope things get better soon.Papbouv   

[BonniesMom]

Yes, I have heard that a thyroid condition can bring changes in mood, human and animal.  Wouldn't be a bad idea to get a blood panel done.  Good rays to both dear Zeke & Zora.  Can't we just get along, kids?