When Calm Behavior Is Actually a Red Flag

Not all that is calm is healthy. If an active dog becomes inexplicably quiet and withdrawn, it may mean she is in pain or ill. Before a dog shows symptoms of sickness or pain, she may become withdrawn.

Owners reward such actions occasionally as they seem like a good thing. In fact, erratic changes in a dog’s personality should never go unnoticed. Changes without a reason should never be encouraged and celebrated.

The important thing is knowing your dog’s norm. Any change, unexplained, is information, and a good owner seeks information.