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Hey folks,
I’m curious if anyone else has gone through this: ever notice your pet start ignoring you after a change at home?
Recently, my sister moved in with us, and ever since then, my usually clingy dog has been keeping to himself. He used to follow me around the house, wait by the door, and bring me toys. Now, he barely lifts his head when I walk in. He’s not aggressive—just… distant. Almost like he’s sulking.
It’s only been a few weeks since the change, and we haven’t changed his routine drastically. He’s eating, sleeping, and going for walks as usual. But emotionally, something feels off. I tried initiating play and even brought out some favorite treats—he’ll respond, but without his usual excitement.
Has anyone else seen this kind of behavior when a new person (or even a new pet) enters the home? Is this his way of adjusting to new energy in the space? Or could it be something deeper?
I don’t want to force attention on him if he needs time, but I also don’t want to miss an early sign of stress, anxiety, or even a health concern.
I’d appreciate any advice on how to help a pet cope with household changes. Do they usually bounce back once things settle? Or should I be doing more to reassure him?
Thanks in advance for sharing—this has me more worried than I expected.
I’m curious if anyone else has gone through this: ever notice your pet start ignoring you after a change at home?
Recently, my sister moved in with us, and ever since then, my usually clingy dog has been keeping to himself. He used to follow me around the house, wait by the door, and bring me toys. Now, he barely lifts his head when I walk in. He’s not aggressive—just… distant. Almost like he’s sulking.
It’s only been a few weeks since the change, and we haven’t changed his routine drastically. He’s eating, sleeping, and going for walks as usual. But emotionally, something feels off. I tried initiating play and even brought out some favorite treats—he’ll respond, but without his usual excitement.
Has anyone else seen this kind of behavior when a new person (or even a new pet) enters the home? Is this his way of adjusting to new energy in the space? Or could it be something deeper?
I don’t want to force attention on him if he needs time, but I also don’t want to miss an early sign of stress, anxiety, or even a health concern.
I’d appreciate any advice on how to help a pet cope with household changes. Do they usually bounce back once things settle? Or should I be doing more to reassure him?
Thanks in advance for sharing—this has me more worried than I expected.