dogs change in behavior

Question
QUESTION: Our Irish Wolfhound / Border Collie mix (Guinness) has recently changed her behavior.  She's become very needy of the last few days (staring at us constantly, getting in bed, sitting on us while we are in bed). There's been some changes at home as I lost my job about 2 months ago. Her walking times are sometimes varied now and I'm obviously home more often.  Could these reasons be behind her change? If so, what can we do? We are worried and frustrated.  Thank you

ANSWER: Hi, Mike,

Thanks for the question. How old is the dog?

The problem could be stress related, or it could be a medical issue. I would take her to the vet to rule out the latter. If she gets a clean bill of health then you'll know it's probably an emotional problem.

In the meantime, whenever she solicits your attention, either ignore her or try to re-direct her to a toy or a bone. Make sure she gets plenty of hard vigorous outdoor play every day. And play tug and fetch with her.

If the vet reports that this isn't caused by a medical condition, let me know and I'll give you some other exercises that are designed to put a dog's instincts and emotions back into harmony with her environment.

LCK

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response.  She is 7.  She had a physical just about 3 weeks ago and we were told she's in good shape. Should we take her in for a follow-up visit?

As I'm writing this, she has jumped on the bed and put her nose on my laptop computer.  Cute, but, it's getting pathetic.

Answer
I'm glad to know she's in good shape. If the exam preceded the change in her behavior I would just give the vet a quick call to let him or her know what's going on and see if there might be something they missed.

I just have time right now for a quick question or two: are you experiencing stress because you lost your job (and because the economy is in the tank, etc.)? If so how much stress? And do think that could be affecting your dog? Do you think it's possible that she's actually trying to "comfort" you because you're worried about the future, etc?

Talk to you more tomorrow,

LCK