Do dogs get depressed?
Dog owners may ask this question numerous times during their dog’s lifetime: What signals is a dog giving that make you think they may be depressed? Could it be something else that is more common?
Depression in dogs is mostly related to changes in their lives. Common causes might be moving, an owner’s work schedule or changes in the family, such as divorce or kids moving out. Changes that make it even more likely are the death of a family member or a dog sibling. And, of course, a serious biggie is the family giving up the dog for whatever reason. This is something that changes everything the dog is used to: people, pets, home, safety and routine.
How can a dog exhibit depression? Several ways are notable: losing interest in food, weight loss, changes in sleep habits and not wanting to walk or play. There may even be a lack of interest in their humans and favorite things they used to love, such as playing with other dogs or getting special treats. Basically, these dogs just shut down.
But how do we know it’s not something medical rather than emotional? We can’t ask them, so we need to eliminate other causes. Could they be sick or in pain? Have your veterinarian check your dog and even do some testing to eliminate other possibilities. Some of the symptoms of depression could be explained medically, especially changes in diet or not wanting to walk or play. If all is normal, then addressing causes of depression is worth examining and treating.
How do you do that? If it is severe, talk to your veterinarian about medications such as those we use with people, including Prozac, Clomicalm and similar medications, or even over-the-counter CBD dog chews to stabilize their emotions. But the most important things to do are those activities your dog would normally love doing. Give them love, but not to excess, as that only makes it worse, implying there is something wrong. Stay with a normal daily routine as much as possible. Extend playtime and walk to interesting spots such as a park or beach. Go for a ride in the car to a pet store or out for a pup cup! If they are missing a dog, go to a dog park or visit a doggie friend.
Consider getting another dog that will stop them from being lonely and give them a reason to play. Take them to a doggie daycare where they are out of their own house and not focused on changes there. It is very important to reward a dog with food and positive attention when they start to show an interest again in normal life activities.
Usually, dogs will get back to their normal selves over time or with positive changes you make. Give them time to adjust and be patient, but don’t ignore these very real emotional needs.
Abby Bird is the owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail.com
