great dane excessive whining

ninakd · #1 Feb 3, 2005, 06:35 PM

Our great dane has been whining all day. We can't figure out what she wants? But something is definitely wrong. She pace the room whining and no matter how much attention we give her, nothing helps. Yet she will play with her toy like everything is fine. In fact, her toy is almost a comfort to her it seems. It's all she wants. She carries it around whining. She is eating a little less than normal, but still eating. Doesn't appear to be in pain. She's just over a year old. Any suggestions or thoughts? Thankyou!!!

labman · Feb 3, 2005, 08:17 PM

Has she been spayed or had her first season? If neither, is her vulva swelled? Almost any sort of flaky behavior is to be expected when they come in season. Above all, expect extreme, creative, strenuous efforts to get loose and go find a male.

Otherwise, better check with the vet. She does seem to be in some sort of distress if not in pain.

ninakd · Feb 4, 2005, 02:18 PM

Thanks for your reply labman. She finished her cycle about two months ago and so I'm guessing she hasn't started another one. I think we will have to check with a vet. She's is also pretty obsessed with a squeaky toy which is not normal for her. She sleeps with it and goes crazy without it. It almost seems to pacify her. Is it possible for dogs to have mental disorders?

labman · Feb 4, 2005, 02:41 PM

The cycle before a year old is normal, but sometimes does come later. The timing might be about right for a false pregnancy. These are very real, some females even produce milk. Does she have enlarged nipples? When I was lower on the learning curve, I actually took the dog into the vet to check. Does she retreat to a den or nest with the toy? It is her baby.

If she has already had her one year check up and shots, you may keep an eye on her and see if she moves on before too long.