dog depression symptoms

As with humans, dogs too can have their ups and downs emotionally. Most pet parents are well-acquainted with wagging tails and cheerful barks, but it is as essential to know when something seems amiss. Dog depression is a genuine and worrisome disorder that can disturb your pet’s behavior, energy levels, and overall health. Knowing the dog depression symptoms in advance can go a long way in making your dog better.

In this article, we will explain the most common dog depression symptoms , what might be causing them, and how you can assist your furry friend in hard times.

What Is Dog Depression?

Dog depression is a behavioral and emotional decline that shares some of the characteristics of human depression. While it’s not diagnosed in the exact same way as in humans, veterinarians are able to recognize a list of indicators to determine if a dog is emotionally distressed.

10 Common Symptoms of Dog Depression

Early detection is crucial. Following are some of the most well-known dog depression symptoms:

1. Loss of Interest in Favorite Activities	If your pet dog loses interest in going for walks, play, or even its favorite toys, it could be an indication of emotional distress.
2. Less Appetite or Sudden Weight Loss	Depressed dogs will eat less or lose appetite for food altogether. This could lead to effortless weight gain or loss.
3. Slept Above Normal	While dogs do sleep a lot naturally, a depressed dog will spend more time sleeping or will appear drowsy even while being awake.
4. Withdrawing or Hiding from Interaction	Dogs may become reclusive, hiding in corners or avoiding family members that they would normally love to be with.
5. Licking or Excessive Chewing	Compulsive behaviors, like paw-licking or chewing on themselves, may be a self-soothing attempt through emotional pain.
6. Vocalization Change	Whining, barking excessively, or refusal to bark from an otherwise vocal dog are all signs of emotional imbalance.
7. Destructive Behavior	When your dog starts to destroy furniture or chew on things they don’t normally, it may be a cry for help.
8. Aggression or Irritability	Other dogs become more aggressive or irritable, especially when touched or approached, as a reaction to depression.
9. Accidents in the House	Trained dogs will start to have accidents in the house unexpectedly, normally as a result of emotional tension.
10. Clinginess or Separation Anxiety	Alternatively, your dog may become too clingy, following you around everywhere or getting upset when you leave.

What Causes Depression in Dogs?

There are numerous reasons why depression can happen in dogs, including:

• Loss of a family member or other pet
• Dramatic changes like moving home or interruptions to the routine
• Lack of socialization or stimulation
• Illness or ongoing pain
• Neglect or past trauma, especially in rescue dogs

How to Help a Depressed Dog

If your dog has been diagnosed with depression, the following are some ways of help:

• Increase quality time and exercise: Go for walks more often or play more.
• Have a routine: Routine is liked by dogs.
• Provide enrichment toys and puzzles: Stimulation for the mind can brighten your dog’s day.
• Implement positive reinforcement: Reward desired behavior to get them interested.
• Consult professional help: Behaviorists or trainers of dogs can prove useful in extreme cases.

In extreme cases, your vet may also administer antidepressant medications in dogs, especially when other measures do not work.

Final Thoughts

Identifying and addressing canine depression symptoms can be a godsend for your pet. By acknowledging changes in behavior and acting early, you can help your furry friend regain its happier and healthier self. Dogs shower us with unconditional love—and they should receive the same regard and compassion as well.