my dog keeps staring up at the ceiling and sniffing like crazy. Is he hearing something I'm not, or is he just being weird? Should I be worried about this new habit?

Hey there! It sounds like your dog might be picking up on something that you can't see or hear, which is actually pretty common—dogs have an incredible sense of smell and hearing! Often, they notice small things like insects, movement, or sounds we might not even register.

Here's what to keep an eye on to ensure everything's okay:

• If your dog seems anxious, is pacing, drooling excessively, or barking a lot when they're looking up and sniffing, it might indicate stress from something they're sensing.
• Look out for signs like head tilting, loss of balance, or disorientation—these could suggest something more serious, like an ear infection or neurological concern.

Generally, this behavior isn't an emergency unless combined with concerning symptoms. If your dog is eating, drinking, and behaving normally otherwise, it's probably okay to wait and watch.

At home, you can try distracting your dog with a favorite toy or activity, or gently check their ears for any redness or odor, which might suggest an ear infection. Keep their space calm and observe if the behavior continues or escalates.

You should definitely reach out to a vet if there's any sudden change in behavior, they seem in distress, or develop new symptoms like vomiting or limping, as these could indicate other issues.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.