why has my 6 month old boxer pups behavior got worse since having her spayed a week ago?

by cath
(croydon)

My 6 month old boxer pups' behavior has got real bad since having her spayed a week ago.

she seems to have forgotten every thing i have taught her. she is very hyperactive and won't stop running and jumping, she was such a good pup before,what's happened?



Hi Cath
I wouldn't worry too much about this, some changes in behavior is actually fairly normal for a few weeks after surgery.

There seems to be a reaction to the stress of the surgery, anesthesia, medications and so on, there may even be some hormonal upheavals during this period. It takes some pups a little while to settle back down again.

Regression in housebreaking or obedience training, hyperactivity, loss of focus and so on are not terribly unusual. But they are generally self-limiting and short-lived though and your pup will most likely be back to her normal self within a week or two.

You will need to remain cool and calm, and give your pup extra patience and affection during this time. But of course that doesn't mean she can 'get away with everything', loving discipline is still needed.

She may even be in a little residual pain, and if she seems stressed, pants excessively, whines a lot or licks excessively at the site of the incision etc., I would suggest talking to your vet and making sure there's no infection, over-tight stitches and so on.

This behavior should subside in a short while, if it doesn't, check with your vet for advice.

Best of luck with her.