Jack Russell With Assorted Odd Behaviours

by Mark
(Leicester, England)

My 12 year old Jack Russell Terrier has just started half-barking/half-yelping whilst out in the fields with me. He almost dragged me home (there was no-one else around whilst we were out), and this afternoon has done the same thing indoors with me and my wife. Nothing will placate him until he decides to stop, then just wants to hide under a chair or table. He has recently had a long-term ear infection and had a couple of seizures, and has suddenly become very old. Any suggestions?

Editor Suggestions

Your dog's behavior could be due to a variety of reasons, including pain, anxiety, or other medical issues. The ear infection and recent seizures could be contributing factors as well.

Pain: Your dog might be experiencing pain related to the ear infection or another issue. The half-barking/half-yelping could be an expression of discomfort. Pay attention to any other signs of pain or discomfort, like limping, sensitivity to touch, or changes in appetite.

Anxiety: The seizures and recent health issues could have caused your dog to become more anxious. Anxious dogs might seek shelter under furniture or exhibit sudden changes in behavior. Observe your dog for other signs of anxiety, like excessive panting, pacing, or trembling.

Medical issues: There could be underlying medical issues causing these behavioral changes. Conditions such as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia in humans) can affect older dogs and cause disorientation, anxiety, and changes in behavior.

It's important to consult with a veterinarian to discuss your dog's symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan. They might recommend pain management, anxiety medication, or further diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem.

In the meantime, try to provide a calm and comfortable environment for your JRT, and monitor their behavior closely for any additional changes or signs of distress.

Best,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Jack Russell Terrier Pictures