Expert: Sandra Case, MEd, CPDT - 4/17/2008

Question
I have a 10 yr old lab who has been demonstrating some odd behavior of late. He has been checked by a vet and is medically fine. the problem is this: he will not always go out when I try to egt him out (even if he has to defecate or urinate) and will not come back in for hours (even to eat, etc). He has always had the upper hand (should I say) but usually listened to me when push came to shove. Obviously, I can't lift him --he is 100 lbs. Help! I have tried to lure him in with treats, toys, etc., to no avail. The other nite, he "chose" to stay out (in a fenced area) the entire nite. Thank goodness it was nice weather. I am upset by this and hope u can help me. Thanks, Val

Answer
When you say checked by a vet and medically fine, what tests did the vet run? A couple of things come to mind. One would be Canine Cognative Dysfunction (which likely would not show up in a routine exam - but if you did a trial run of the prescription medication Anapryl or OTC cholodin - which can sometimes improve mental function in old dogs, might be DX by the difference in behavior.) Another would be, does he have to do "steps" to go in and come out? Ten is pretty old for a lab, and 100 lbs. is pretty heavy. If you run your hand down his side can you feel ribs? If he is overweight, you may want to put him on a diet. Excess weight is hard on old joints, and especially with my seniors, I prefer to have them a bit on the slim side instead of the chubby side. Did your vet xray him? It's very possible - likely, even - that he has some arthritic changes in his joints and even in his spine (spoldylosis). NSAIDs or other pain/anti-inflammatory meds and a glucosamine supplement might make it easier for him, and you might consider a ramp for the porch if there are steps. So, I'd manage the environment to make it as easy on his body as possible and talk to the vet about possible meds. And dogs are never too old to learn. You say he has always had "the upper hand" and you may want to do some daily training to change that. If he does need to diet, you can actually use part of his regular food for training sessions. First, I'd be looking at teaching a reliable recall. Good luck with the old guy! Sandy Case MEd, CPDT www.positivelycanine.com