sudden strange behavior

Question
We are really starting to worry about our 2 yr old female coonhound Chloe. She has started carrying around our childrens toys, not chewing them, just carrying them. She will also bring them down in our cellar and just lay with them. If anyone goes near her, she starts growling. She has also started attacking our other dog Tucker at random. It is almost as though she is "mothering" these toy's...very protective. The only other thing is that we do have a pregnant cat staying outside on our porch. Chloe has never come in contact with this cat, but if anyone pets the cat and comes inside, she will smell them like crazy. Could there be any link there? We just don't know what to do, and are starting to be afraid she may bite one of our kids. Any help you can offer would be appreciated.

                           Sincerely, Carol

Answer
Hi Carol,

If she is intact she may be having a false pregnancy. A call into your vet asking the very same questions is in order. But mostly (if it is a falsie) it should be done in a few weeks and you can manage her so she does not attack your dog.

If she is intact, consider spaying her as well. It will make her and your life much easier!