Some dogs may pretend to be sick or injured for it PULLED attention from their owners. While true signs of distress should be taken seriously, it's not uncommon for dogs to adopt minor symptoms like coughing or limping to get more love.
Dr Richard Pitcairn, a veterinarian and author, explains that this behavior often starts with a real problem, but the owner's response reinforces it even after the problem is solved.
For example, if a dog coughs and gets immediate attention, they learn to associate coughing with getting love.
Dogs can't mimic certain symptoms like fever or diarrhea, so most tend to show symptoms they can control, such as lameness or sneezing. However, it is important to consult a vet if your dog shows signs of illness or injury, as he may be experiencing genuine distress.
Remember, dogs, like people, can experience minor setbacks during recovery. If your vet can't find any signs of previous illness, it could indicate that your dog is feigning it.
If you suspect your dog is pretending, consider factors such as recent life changes or increased time away from them. Providing dedicated attention through activities such as walks or cuddle sessions can help address any underlying motivations for their behavior. This reaffirms their importance in your life and can resolve feigned illness or injury.
