Why does my 16 year old dog pace for hours?

1. 53

   leutseymposted 8 years ago

   Why does my 16 year old dog pace for hours?
   
   He will walk from one end of the apt to the other over and over and over for hours. He is deaf now and I don't think he can see much anymore neither.

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2. 69

   lisavollrathposted 8 years ago

   I had a dog who was blind and deaf in his older years, and I think he paced to replace the information he no longer got from his eyes and ears. He sniffed, and he could feel the warmth of the sun coming in through the windows, and that's how he navigated.
   
   As long as he's not in distress, and not hurting anything, let him pace.

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3. 53

   leutseymposted 8 years ago

   Well I hope there's nothing wrong. However for the last 11 years we had lived in our own apt. Recently we had to move into an extra bedroom at someone else's apt so his pacing is much more faster and full of anxiety. Before it was just a slow paced walk. I feel so bad this move so late in his life.

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4. 62

   fpherj48posted 8 years ago

   leutseym,  My heart breaks for your dog.  I do believe the "move" from the environment he was so familiar with to a new surrounding has affected him quite a bit. His deafness would only exacerbate his anxiety.  Dogs rely almost 100% on scent to recognize people, places and things.
   You don't mention his breed.  This can sometimes help in trying to understand a dog's behavior. 
   This is clearly a case of severe anxiety......have you spoken to his Vet?  You also don't mention how many hrs in a day he is left alone (without you, specifically)   
   Besides having a chat with his Vet, I know that I would do some online research, maybe even a chat group for pet owners.  Also, I suggest it is important to spend one on one time with him, providing loving, comforting touch and speaking gently to him... Just like human children, they need reassurance from Mom or Dad.  This may calm him a bit and cut back on his continual pacing. Other than this, I believe the Vet may prescribe an anti-anxiety.  At his age, he deserves some comfort & rest.  Good luck!

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   1. 53

      leutseymposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Hi Paula,
      I totally appreciate all your input. Yes I'm sure this move has not been healthy at all in him. He is a mix of stubborn and spoiled. Lol.
      No really I think a mix of schnauzer and poodle? He looks somewhat like an older more chunky Toto.

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