5 Common Causes of Whining with Senior Dogs – and How You Can Help
Whining is a very non-specific symptom; it can be caused by pain, frustration, confusion, anxiety, or excitement, or it can be a sign of a more serious underlying disease. Often expressed as a high-pitched vocalization, if your dog never used to whine when they were younger, then investigating why they may have started now is a good idea.
Try to identify which situations make your dog whine, the duration of whining and if the frequency of whining throughout the day is increasing, as this information can help both you and your veterinarian pinpoint possible causes. While some causes of whining aren’t treatable, many are, and the sooner you investigate the cause of the whining, the faster any appropriate treatment can begin and the better the prognosis.
Here are some of the most common causes of whining in older dogs:
You Are Not Alone in the Dark Anymore
The purpose of this article is to share my experience of owning a dog that went blind after years of good health and provide help to all who find themselves in a similar situation.
Why Does My Senior Dog Walk in Circles?
Circling behavior in senior dogs usually occurs as a result of cognitive issues or anxiety. A trip to the veterinarian is warranted each time your senior dog exhibits uncommon behaviors, including circling frequently and repetitively. (Circling before lying down in his dog bed or favorite napping spot is normal.) Keep in mind the circle may be tight and easy to spot, or wide and tougher to recognize as worrisome.
Along with pacing, repetitive circling is a symptom of canine cognitive dysfunction. Other symptoms include disorientation, sleep disturbances, unusual vocalization, and incontinence. Don’t ignore circling or other symptoms as the regular effects of aging. Cognitive dysfunction is a disease, and early intervention can help delay or slow the decline of mental functioning.
As with pacing, circling can also indicate serious brain ailments, such as a tumor.
Anxiety can cause circling in dogs of any age, but it becomes more prevalent as dogs age and experience normal cognitive decline and pain associated with other illnesses. Circling caused by anxiety is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder, in that it gives dogs a sense of control and comfort.
The response to circling behavior is similar to handling pacing. Take your dog to the vet with notes on how long he has circled, how often, and any other changes in behavior or health. For both anxiety and cognitive dysfunction, the vet may prescribe medications that manage symptoms.
At home, keep your dog’s schedule as routine as possible and offer regular exercise and mental stimulation. Increase any activities that are particularly calming for your dog, such as belly rubs or getting fresh air. Keep rooms uncluttered and don’t move the furniture around, especially if he’s also experiencing disorientation.