Female suddenly acting dominant

Question
I have a spayed 6 year old Airdale.  
The last few days she has been displaying strange behavior, backing into me, trying to climb on my lap and putting her paws over my shoulders.  This morning she tried to get on the treadmill while I was running on it. And tonight I had to put her on her bed because she kept following me, panting and trying to climb on me.  I can't figure out if she is acting dominant, in pain or nervous.  She has also been bolting out the door whenever possible.  She usually just runs plays with the two dogs at our neighbors, two neutered males, but this obsession with getting out is new.   I run her every morning for a couple of miles and is good health.  Any thoughts?

Answer
Hi Laura, Do you have diabetes or low blood sugar, seizures or epilepsy? The backing into you and climbing on you is often a way that service dogs alert their owners that they are having medical issues. So I was just wondering if you have any physical problems yourself. At six years old I doubt she would be suddenly exhibiting dominant behavior unless something drastic has changed in her life lately. If you are giving her a good amount of exercise by running and/or walking at the heel, and she has adequate play time, I would check on her further. Bolting out the door and play next door is a sign that she does need more attention and exercise. Her breed is used to getting lots of exercise, she is built for speed, so that does not surprise me. Certainly teach her how to use the treadmill with you, that is a wonderful way to exercise a dog! If you need help learning how, let me know. Is she spayed? If not, she could have a female issue. If she is spayed, there is no harm in explaining this behavior to your vet and getting their opinion as well.  She is surely trying to tell you something, so I am glad to hear that you are listening to her. If her health checks out fine and you increase her exercise, let me know if it does not go away. Thanks for writing. Leave me some feedback and let me know how things go for her. Regards, Susan