06/02/2026
🐾My dog used to love everyone and now they don’t!🐾
Did you know your dogs sociability may change as they age? It is not uncommon for puppies and young dogs to love every dog they meet and then as they age become more dog selective, becoming less playful and maybe even a little upset with new dogs.
This isn’t a behaviour problem, but a developmental shift.
Adult dogs can change and often show a preference towards dogs they’ve known previously, or more specific types and/or personalities of other dogs.
You may notice more distance seeking behaviours, a reduction in playfulness, and a more gradual mindful approach to introductions needed. This is normal.
If your dog does have an abrupt change, is acting aggressively, anxiously or has a change towards previously loved dogs I would recommend a vet visit to rule out pain first and then seek out behaviour training to learn how to best read your dog and set them up for success in social settings.
📸 of PHH dogs Olive and Gatsby snuggling on the couch