Elderly dog aggressive since coming out of lockdown

[NoIdontwanttoseeyourknob]

Since we’ve been able to go out and about more my old boy has started to snap at strangers if they attempt to pet him. I do try and warn them off but some people ignore me as he looks harmless and inoffensive.

He’s fine with me but I suppose I am used to his cues.

Is it a sign that his end is approaching? He has arthritis and is on pain meds and I know that at some point I am going to have to take the decision that life is not fun for him any more.

I don’t want him to actually hurt anyone, obviously. I do my best to manage his interactions but I know that isn’t foolproof.

It’d be worth getting him a check up, see if he needs his painkillers adjusting.

But tbh, there’s no need for strangers to be touching him, if he’s older and a bit sore he probably just wants them to leave him alone - I’d not be up for strangers touching me...

Ditto what @tabulahrasa said. The dog definitely needs to be seen by a vet again - grumpiness like this is very commonly caused by pain.

If your dog doesn't want strangers touching him then it's your job to advocate for him. These are surprisingly effective because they're such a direct instruction (obviously the answer when they ask is "no")
httpss://www.saintroch.co.uk/ask-before-stroking-lead-cover-/-slip-p421.html

Thanks both. There’s a specialist pain clinic near to me, I’ll ask the vet if he would refer us.

I wouldn't make any decision without taking him to the vets - it could just be that a simple medication adjustment is needed.

However I wouldn't be letting people stroke and fuss him. It's not necessary and you don't want his grumbles to turn into something more.

You'd be grumpy if random strangers came up and stroked you, so why do we expect our dogs to put up with it?

Tell people he's got fleas, that will stop them!

And see the vet also.