My 8-year-old Shih Tzu has started following me constantly over the past two days. She’s been in my life since childhood, and while she’s affectionate, she’s never behaved like this before. Now, she’s always by my side—following me to the bathroom, patio, bedroom, everywhere. I’m not pregnant, and nothing major has changed in my life recently. I’m starting to wonder if something is wrong with her or with me. Any advice on what might be causing this?
She might be sensing something is off with you or she could be dealing with a health issue herself. It could be her age making her feel more nervous or clingy. Maybe a vet checkup would help rule out any issues, just to be cautious.
@Baylen
She might be losing her vision or hearing as she ages. Definitely take her to the vet to check on her health.
At 8 years old, she’s becoming a senior dog, and this might be a sign of aging. Dogs can become more anxious or clingy when they start losing their sight or hearing, or just as they become more dependent on their human companions in their later years.
@Tallis
Yes, when dogs start acting differently like this, it’s best to take them to the vet to make sure there’s no underlying health issue.
Keep an eye on her behavior. Is she focusing on a specific part of you or does she seem anxious about certain areas of your home? It could give you a clue as to what’s making her feel uneasy.
My dog started doing this when he turned 12. Sometimes, they just want to be close as they get older. It’s sweet but can be a little worrying at first!
Maybe it’s just her new thing now. My dogs followed me everywhere all the time, it might just be her way of being close to you.
She might be sensing your emotional state and trying to comfort you. Dogs are great at picking up on their owners’ moods.
I’m on crutches and my dog has been more anxious and follows me around constantly now. It could be that she senses you’re in need of comfort.
My dog got very clingy a week before she started having seizures. Keep an eye on her health, just in case.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Is there something different about you, like a change in medication, diet, or anxiety level?
- Could your dog be feeling vulnerable due to a health issue, like declining eyesight or hearing?
- Has there been any environmental change, like new people in the house or a change in routine? Even subtle things can cause dogs to act differently.