I have NO MEDICAL background. If your question pertains to a physical concern about your dog -- that is, you think your dog may be sick, whelping problems, trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, excessive drinking, heavy drooling, unexplained physical symptoms of ANY kind, etc -- YOU NEED TO GET OFF THE COMPUTER AND CALL YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT WASTE TIME WAITING FOR AN EMAIL RESPONSE!!! Your dog could be having a medical crisis!
I answer questions pertaining to training of all kinds, behavior, grooming,etc. I am qualified to address questions regarding basic training issues; crate training, housebreaking, behavior management tools, basic obedience skills.
You may be interested in visiting:
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Experience Past instructor for Puppy and Behavior classes for the Humane Society of Missouri. Have been a trainer for over 10 years, both in private in-home sessions and in classroom situations. Have participated in obedience with one of my goldens, titling her with a Companion Dog title. Both of my dogs earned their CGC title and were certified as therapy dogs through two separate organizations. Currently involved in local golden retriever rescue. Am currently serving as an "expert" in the Golden Retriever, Dog Training, and Canine Behavior categories.
Organizations Dirk's Fund Golden Retriever Rescue, www.dirksfund.com
Education/Credentials Going on over ten years of private and public training; instructed with Humane Society of Missouri and South County Obedience.
Question I have a fine young man that I adopted from a shelter when he was about 5 months old. He is about 11 months old now. River is half Heeler, half Cocker. I have had dogs most of my adult life and have never seen the behavior he exhibits.
River will be sound asleep and all of a sudden, he will start growling, staring at his bed, and bite at his blanket or the couch. He sounds vicious - like he means it. His eyes are open, but he is focusing on whatever he imagines is there. This can go on for 15 to 20 seconds and he will snap out of it if I speak his name loudly. He immediately goes back into a sound sleep.
I have made the mistake of trying to comfort him at first, but he bit me. He was having a nap with me once and I stroked his fur as I was dozing off. He snarled and bit me. Then went right back to sleep.
When he is stressed, the incidences of snarling and biting his bed become much more frequent.
Any ideas? I'm hoping he will grow out of it.
At least I know enough now not to bother him while he is sleeping . . .
Any ideas or thoughts will be appreciated. Thanks.
Answer Hi, Donna,
I've never heard of this before, but it sounds like something resembling sleepwalking.
Since you've learned to "let sleeping dogs lie" so to speak, I don't think it's anything to worry about, but if you have future concerns, mention it to your vet.
