9 year old or so female chocolate lab

Question
QUESTION: She has become more reclusive specially to dark corners and areas, like the
bathroom, sometimes she likes to be alone, rather rare behavior started about 8
months ago.... sometimes she does not come at all when called if she is in her
dark corners... any ideas?

ANSWER: Hi Ylara,

Has she had an accident or a fight 8 months back. Do you remember any specific instance of her getting hurt? Does she behave aggressively when you try to get her out of her hiding? Has she every growled or snapped at any family member? Does she eat and drink normally?

There is a possibility that she is hurt. I am suspecting either her eyesight is fading or she has hurt her eyes. If she takes recluse in dark corners - it could be because the lights hurt her eyes.

Try to take her out of the house during the day. If i suspect correctly - she may not come outside. Try to sit with her inside the room with bright lighting. Does she squint or rub her eyes with her paws?

If you can, try to look at her eyes. Do you see a clear eyeball? or is there any haze or a milky covering on her eyes?

If you can, i suggest call a vet home and let him inspect her. Eye diseases like Cataract do happen to dogs.

Don't worry - its perfectly curable. Dont scold her or shout at her. She's getting older - she needs her space.

best,
Sam




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

QUESTION: Thanks Sam, no aggressive behavior, she is as loving as always, her eyes seem
fine, no fights or traumas, she does seem to have a hard time (small) getting up
from her resting place, once her body gets going she is fine, could it be she may
have some pain in her joints? and that may be part of her behavior?

Answer
Ok - your input helped.

Your lab is obviously getting older. Accept it. :) She's becoming older and she is realizing that she is becoming older.

Consider this as a PMS situation ! :)

She may sulk a little and behave strangely - its ok, she just going through some changes. Has she been neutered? You might want to talk your vet about this.

Best,
Sam