Reddit is full of caring dog parents asking real questions about their pets’ behavior and wellbeing. If you’ve ever scrolled through Reddit dogs forums like r/DogAdvice, you know you’re not alone in wondering about the reasoning behind common dog behaviors, like what the reason is when your dog suddenly refuses a walk or starts acting a bit “off.”
As a veterinarian, I see the same questions come up again and again, and I’m glad they do! Staying curious about your dog’s needs is one of the best ways to support their health.
In this article, I’ll tackle eight of the most common dog care questions I see pop up on Reddit, offering practical, vet-informed guidance to help you feel more confident and compassionate in your decision-making. Of course, this advice is not a substitute for professional care. If you’re ever concerned about your dog’s health, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian.
Table of Contents:
- Why is my dog suddenly refusing to go on evening walks?
- Is my dog comfortable, or restless?
- Is biting okay when dogs play together?
- Is this aggression or just play?
- Should I take my dog to the vet for a chipped nail?
- Why is my dog drinking so much water?
- Why is my dog avoiding me after surgery?
- Why doesn’t my dog respect me?
- Conclusion: Caring for your dog’s wellbeing
The 8 Most Asked Dog Questions on Reddit: Answered by a Vet
Why is my dog suddenly refusing to go on evening walks?
It can be unsettling when a dog who usually loves their evening stroll suddenly digs in their heels or turns back to the door. If you’re wondering why doesn’t my dog want to walk anymore, you’re not alone; this is one of the top posts on Reddit’s dog communities.
Possible reasons:
- Temperature changes: On hot summer nights or chilly winter evenings, your dog may feel uncomfortable stepping out into weather extremes.
- Environmental factors: New neighborhood noises, like fireworks, loud cars, or barking dogs, can make a previously calm route feel intimidating.
- Past experiences: A scary or unpleasant incident on a walk (like an encounter with another animal) may make your dog reluctant to repeat it.
What may help:
Try changing your routine. Go a little earlier or later, pick a quieter street, or offer extra encouragement with calm praise and tasty treats. Avoid pulling or forcing your dog forward. If your dog’s refusal occurs alongside other changes, like limping, a reduced appetite, or low energy, you may want to consult your vet to rule out a deeper reason for their discomfort.
Is my dog comfortable, or restless?
One of the top questions on Reddit dogs forums, is why a dog might seem less comfortable or restless at night when it’s time to settle for bed. The truth is, it’s normal for dogs to shift around before settling. Circling, digging at blankets, or moving from bed to bed can all be part of finding that perfect spot. But when does normal nesting cross into restlessness?
Signs to watch for if your dog keeps moving around and can’t get comfortable:
- Repeatedly getting up and down without settling
- Pacing the room, standing and staring at you or the door
- Switching sleeping spots frequently, even when the environment is calm
- Whining or panting
What could be happening:
Your dog may be too hot or too cold, overstimulated from too much noise or activity, or simply adjusting their comfort position. Sometimes, frequent restlessness can be linked to age-related changes or discomfort, so it’s worth noting whether this is a new or persistent issue. Keeping a log of when these episodes occur can help you identify any connections.
How to help:
Offer a calm, quiet space with comfy bedding, and establish a predictable bedtime routine. If your dog continues to move around at night or exhibits other changes in appetite or energy, mention this to your vet during your next visit to rule out any underlying concerns.
Is biting okay when dogs play together?
Play biting is one of the most common topics on r/DogAdvice and for good reason. Many dogs, especially puppies and young adults, naturally use their mouths during play.
Signs it’s healthy play:
- Loose, wiggly body language and wagging tails
- Play bows (elbows down, rear up) inviting the other dog to continue
- Back-and-forth shifts, where one dog chases, then the other takes a turn
When to watch closely:
- One dog tries to hide or escape repeatedly
- Growls or barks become sharp or high-pitched instead of playful
- One dog looks stiff, stares intensely, or freezes
Play biting can help dogs learn social skills, but supervision is crucial, especially when there are significant size differences. If things get too rough, calmly separate them for a break and redirect the energy with toys or training games.
Is this aggression or just play?
Similar to the question above, many pet parents worry that rough play might be a sign of aggression, especially when an older dog and a young puppy are involved. Puppies can be relentless with their energy and may annoy an older dog who’s past the “rowdy wrestling” stage.
Normal play behaviors:
- Chasing, wrestling, and gentle nipping at ears or necks
- Play growling, often low and rumbling, but paired with wiggly body language
- Self-handicapping. The bigger dog will lie down or roll over to keep the game fair
When to step in:
- If play turns one-sided (the older dog keeps trying to walk away, but the puppy persists)
- If you see air snaps, raised hackles, or prolonged staring with stiff posture
- If you hear yelps and one dog seems genuinely distressed
Short, supervised dog and puppy play sessions with clear breaks help teach puppies better manners and show older dogs they can trust you to manage the energy.
Should I take my dog to the vet for a chipped nail?
A chipped nail is another common source of worry for Reddit’s dog owners, and I get it! Chipped nails can look dramatic if a piece breaks off, but not every nail mishap requires an urgent vet visit.
When chipped dog nails are a minor issue:
- The nail is only partially chipped and not close to the base
- Your dog is walking normally and not constantly licking the paw
- There’s no visible sensitivity when gently touching the area
When to take your dog to the vet for a chipped nail:
- Your dog is limping or holding the paw up
- The nail is cracked down to the quick, is bleeding, or seems painful
- There’s persistent licking or redness at the nail bed
At home, you can:
- Keep the area clean
- Limit rough play for a day or two
- Pick up an e-collar (head cone) from the pet store if they are licking
- Monitor for any changes.
Keeping nails trimmed regularly may help prevent future chips. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your vet’s office can help you decide if an exam is needed.
Why is my dog drinking so much water?
Seeing your dog head back to the water bowl over and over can make any attentive owner pause, and wonder: Why is my dog drinking a lot of water all of a sudden?
Normal reasons for excessive water drinking in dogs:
- Hot weather or increased exercise
- Eating more dry food or salty treats
- After a long play session or big walk
What to watch for:
Keep an eye on how much water your dog is actually drinking. A gradual increase may be normal, but a sudden spike, especially if paired with accidents in the house, changes in appetite, or shifts in energy, is worth discussing with your vet.
A simple checkup and routine lab work can help your vet rule out underlying factors and keep your dog’s hydration on track. Never limit your dog’s access to fresh, clean water, as this can result in severe dehydration, especially if a medical condition is the cause.
Why is my dog avoiding me after surgery?
Seeing your dog keep their distance after surgery can feel heartbreaking. Many pet parents post about this on Reddit, wondering, “Why is my dog avoiding me after surgery? Did I do something wrong?“
The short answer: Probably not.
Dogs recovering from surgery may be tired, groggy, or uncertain in their environment. Anesthesia, pain management meds, and wearing an unfamiliar cone or bandage can all contribute to temporary withdrawal.
How to help:
- Create a calm, quiet resting area with familiar bedding.
- Offer gentle reassurance without overwhelming them.
- Let your dog come to you at their own pace.
Most dogs warm back up once they feel more like themselves. If avoidance persists alongside changes in appetite, mobility, or energy levels, consult your veterinarian to ensure recovery is progressing as expected.
Why doesn’t my dog respect me?
A common but often misunderstood concern on Reddit is that a dog “doesn’t respect” its person, due to particular behaviours such as not listening, ignoring cues, or acting out. But the truth is, dogs don’t think in terms of “respect” the way humans do.
Why Doesn’t My Dog Respect Me? What’s really happening:
Most often, this comes down to unclear communication or inconsistent routines. Dogs thrive when they know what’s expected of them, and they learn best with kind, consistent reinforcement.
How to build trust:
- Use clear cues and follow through consistently.
- Reward the behaviors you do want instead of only reacting to what you don’t.
- Spend quality time together, training through positive, short sessions that build your bond.
If you’re feeling stuck, a certified trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help tailor strategies to your dog’s personality and your lifestyle.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Dog’s Wellbeing
Your curiosity and care are what make you a great pet parent. These questions, whether about a dog refusing evening walks, restless pacing at bedtime, or drinking more water than usual, reflect a deep desire to understand what your dog needs.
When something feels “off,” don’t hesitate to make notes and check in with your veterinarian. Most of the time, small shifts in routine, environment, or communication can go a long way toward helping your dog feel safe, comfortable, and understood.
By staying observant and responsive, you’re supporting not just your dog’s physical health, but also their emotional wellbeing. And when in doubt? Keep asking questions and speak to your vet. Your pup is lucky to have you in their corner.
