Have you ever thought Fido looks depressed today? Has your dog’s behavior changed? Could your dog be depressed? We can not just up and ask them how they are feeling. Can a dog suffer from depression? The short answer is yes. The real question is do they suffer from depression, in the same ways people suffer. In practical terms, depression in dogs is very similar to depression in people. However, in some situations, there can be other reasons for the dogs’ behavior. The behavior that looks like depression could be a symptom medical problem. A visit with your vet for a checkup should be high on your list in steps to resolve issues with your dog. You know your dog and its behaviors best. When you do visit your vet you have to speak for your dog. Although it may be common for your pet to feel down it is uncommon for them to suffer long-term depression.
So what are the signs of depression in your dog?
- Eating more or less than usual
- Changed sleeping pattern
- Irritability
- Loss of focus
- Do not enjoy doing things they used to
Oops! Wrong list, that is a list of signs of depression in us humans. In the article 5 Warning Signs: What to Do When a Dog Is Depressed by Katherine Ripley, she lists the following:
- Appetite Changes
- Changes in Sleeping Habits
- Loss of Interest
- Avoidance or Hiding
- Excessive Licking
For the most part, we share the same signs and symptoms of depression with our canine companions.
You think your dog might be depressed, what do you do?
“So what should you do if your usually happy dog has the symptoms of depression? First, take your dog to the vet to make sure these symptoms are not caused by a physical ailment.”
Fortunately, dogs rarely suffer from long-term depression, give them some time for them to work through it. In the meantime try to keep the daily routines the same. Keep your dogs diet the same. Do more activities with your dog, be careful not to reward the depressive behavior. Exercise can be a great cure for many unwanted behaviors.
Yes, dogs can show signs of depression. If your dog seems depressed take them to the vet it might be a medical condition and not depression. Do more activities with your dog the exercise and time spent together is a wonderful way to prevent many undesired behaviors.
