Worried About My Doodle

[Joanie]

Hi Everyone :)

I'm worried about my Lani (she's an ALD).  This past week her tummy has been a little upset and twice this week she hasn't eaten her breakfast.  I'm wondering if how she's feeling has something to do with me.  I have been EXTREMELY stressed out and I don't know if Lani is picking up on that.  She comes from very strong therapy lines in her lineage. The reason I'm wondering if how Lani is feeling is tied to how I'm feeling is because Lani has been EXTREMELY cuddly this week, more so than usual and keeps giving me kisses upon kisses, and laying on me, and keeps looking at me like she's worried.  Thoughts?

[Jennifer and Jack]

I would definitely not know for sure, but I would assume she is picking up on your stress... There are a lot of people who know more then me but I know from experience Jack picks up on stress and reacts sort of the same way... She probably senses you are upset and looks to you as the leader and if the leader is upset it is going to upset her.

If you can distract her with treats and or something fun and she behaves ok, I  would not worry but if she is not taking in water or treats and is acting really out of character I would bring her in..

Try to do something fun and playful with her and see if she comes around.. if she won't, I would bring her for a check up.

I am sorry your week was stressful..... I hope things get better for you soon.

[Suzanne & Jack]

I am experiencing the same thing with my Jack. Today he didn't touch his food this morning or evening. Finally he ate his food about 10:00 pm.

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

Sometimes, Finnegan will show no interest in a meal but he's perfectly fine.  He'll skip his breakfast but eat a good dinner or vice versa.  I definitely see that Finn (also an ALD) picks up on my emotions. He's a therapy dog and that ability is what makes him so good at comforting people.  But it works the other way too --he'll get overly stressed if I'm stressed.  Crying babies upset him.  People arguing confuse him.  So I think you're absolutely right to suspect she's picking up on your feelings.  If I'm having a stressful week -- I try to make extra time for walks or play.  Even if it's just for a short break.  Helps both of us :)

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I agree and I really think this is a great approach.  Try to take some time (even 30 minutes) to get outside and do something fun with Lani.  Play ball or take a walk in a new place....just enjoy that time together. 

[Joanie]

Thank you :)  I will definitely try your suggestions.  I have been trying to show Lan I'm ok and play with her, but I guess she's still picking up on that I'm not 100% myself.