Why does my Pit Bull mix lean and paw at me? Is it normal?

Hello, and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Your description sounds most suspicious of generalized anxiety. There may have been something that spooked your dog recently to cause the behavior change, making him want to be near you all the time and causing him to seek reassurance. However, given his breed, it's also possible that he's just got too much pent-up energy - many high energy breeds can develop either anxiety or boredom if they aren't given an outlet for their energy and a way to tire themselves out. I recommend making sure your dog has a way to RUN his energy off daily. (with his breed and age, a walk probably won't cut it). You can take him running, or if he's ball motivated, throwing a ball is a great option to get him running. Fenced in dog parks are good options too. If tiring him out doesn't help reduce his clingy behaviors, I recommend consulting your vet and having them do a physical exam and likely some screening bloodwork. Sometimes panting, whining, and being generally clingy are the dog's way of telling us that something's not right, which can be the first sign of a disease or health problem. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! It does sound like separation anxiety. It can happen in any breed. But some are more prone: German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Labs, Border Collies, Pointers, etc. https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-common-signs-of-separation-anxiety-in-dogs/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/top-5-ways-to-reduce-separation-anxiety-in-dogs/

Hi. It sounds like sparky has more attachment syndrome/separation anxiety and attention seeking behavior rather then disease related to head-pressing (which is what you were referring to). I would be much less worried about an internal health issue and focus more on his behavior. You can try positive reinforcement for him when you are home and when you leave him alone so he knows you are coming back. You can reward him for good behavior that involves giving you a little bit of space when you need it - like in the kitchen. You can give him activities and things to do while you are home so he can be more self-entertained rather then all of his focus on you. You can also speak to his veterinarian about some medications that can help with anxiety and these types of behaviors if you are interested. Best of luck!

Most pitbulls have atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies). One of the main symptoms of allergies in dogs is licking/chewing at the paws and scratching everywhere. Often allergic dogs also have chronic allergies and recurring anal gland issues too. I recommend making an appointment with your vet about possible allergies. There is an allergy medication called Apoquel that doesn’t have the same effects as steroids on increasing thirst and peeing, but usually works on significantly alleviating the itch within a few hours. There is also an injectable allergy medication called Cytopoint that is given every 4 weeks and can be given in conjunction with Apoquel that has had amazing results in most atopic dermatitis dogs. While on these allergy meds, Vega should be on an oral flea and tick medication such as Bravecto, Simparica or NexGard as even a single flea bite can cause a similar allergic reaction. The trembling and vomiting may be due to a food allergy, acid reflux or possibly a liver/kidney issues. Yearly screening bloodwork is recommended to rule out more serious internal organ causes of the vomiting. A trial switch to a prescription diet such as Royal Canin GI may be recommended by your vet as well. Good luck!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Pip. From the pictures, her behavior appears playful. Puppies will commonly nip and mouth around the necks and muzzles of adult dogs. As long as her tail is wagging and she is not forcefully growly, then I suspect this is normal play behavior. You can always enroll her in puppy classes as this will help her socialization and to learn how to appropriately play with other dogs. I hope this information helps!

If he is like most young pitties I know, he is probably a maniac. Maybe he banged his throat on something or overdid himself when he was pulling / playing. I have three myself and they have a knack for throwing themselves into things very hard. If this isn't the case most likely, than there is potentially some inflammatory, infectious, or allergic process causing Gronk to act out of the norm. Since he is currently stable and not in any direct distress, you might consider scheduling him a regular veterinary visit. If matters do not change or improve by the time that visit rolls around, take him in for a check up. If they are improving or gone before than, cancel it. Obviously if matters are worsening or have reached a point that are unacceptable to you, you should have him seen on an emergency basis through your local ER clinic. Hope this makes sense.

It can be normal for a pet to become more attached to their owner, especially if there is a life event (recent move, recent family addition, change in work schedule, etc) that occurs. Dogs are true companion animals whom often grow attached to their owners. As long as Bella doesn't have any symptoms of illness such as vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy or diarrhea then I wouldn't be concerned that this is anything more than Bella showing affection. Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and take care.