On Woody's walks, were there any storms? Or any sudden noises...like car start-ups near him, building work, road work, a sudden flash of light, or anything similar?....Was there any thunder?
Dogs have deep feelings and can have a sensitive emotional system. They certainly do grieve, and can be very upset to see family members suddenly ill, and of course can sometimes be a bit scared to see something happening to a family member. Of course, we can't explain it to them in plain English. But yes -they can feel scared.
But I think that whenever there is a sudden behavioural change with a dog, it's best we don't assume it is 'just behavioural' and approach only from that angle, because sometimes it can be physical.
They can't tell us they have a pinched nerve, a weakness in the legs, a weird sensation. And dogs are usually so stoical, it takes a lot to make a dog actually yelp with pain, or go off its food.
So my advice is if you think it's a good idea, do take your dog in to the vet for a full physical health check including bloodwork, and mention the 'funny turns'.
Yes, Thank you very much for your reply Ginger, no, he is doing it every walk no matter what the weather, yes I have him going to a specialist tomorrow morning for a complete check up. Thank you so much again for your kind reply
Sincerely Mike