A matron's early hormonal changes can upset the dog and her owner. She may periodically appear uneasy and restless, or demonstrate other minor personality changes. Your dog's demonstrated behaviors in response to hormonal changes are affected by and dependent upon your attitude toward her.

Some prospective mothers are predisposed toward withdrawal and inactivity as a response to hormonal changes. As long as her appetite is good and her elimination is normal, there is no cause for alarm. Treat her as you do normally, and given a few days, she should recover from her slump. A persistent withdrawal of a normally exuberant dog can be, however, a sign of depression.

Extra attention of a quietly loving and supportive nature will help her to recover. At times an extra car ride or a walk is enough to enable her recovery. Do not hesitate to consult with her veterinarian, however, should her depressed behaviors persist and her appetite or waste material exhibit changes.

Some dogs exhibit signs of short-tempered resentment to a normal routine, environment, other household pets and even, on occasion, the owner. Exhibition of behaviors deviating from the norm requires careful examination of the matron's complete environment to discern the cause of her upset. Usually negative behaviors as a response to increased hormonal activities last a few days to a week.

Most female dogs make selfish demands while pregnant. They become very loving, demanding extra affection from all they encounter. Fortunate dogs that have a supportive, trusting relationship with their owners become much "more" during their prenatal period. They are usually more loving, more demanding and/ or more vocal during this time. Some retain the exaggerated affectionate poses acquired during a pregnancy.

No dog should be subjected to harassment of any form. Even the most benignly tempered dogs have limits. A matron's limits may be shorter. If subjected to emotional or physical abuse, she will exhibit signs of her intolerance, attempting escape by moving to another part of the house or yard. She could feel threatened and exhibit signs of undue excitability and resentment if her escape attempts are thwarted.

It is not at all unusual that in an altered state of excitement she would "grump" her displeasure through a warning/complaining type of growl. Warning signs of discomfort should always be heeded. A female dog displaying this personality trait requires a safe place of her own, quiet and away from noise and confusion. A matron feeling trapped and panicky could display overt signs of aggression.