Is your dog depressed? How to read the warning signs

WARNING SIGNS OF DOG DEPRESSION

It may seem silly, but dogs, just like their humans can get depressed. If your dog has been acting different lately, maybe he is sleeping a lot, or not eating as much as usual, has become destructive, or has lost interest with things he normally loves to do like going for walks, playing with his toys, or going for car rides. Your dog may be depressed. Because depression symptoms are similar to many illnesses, the first thing you should do is go to the vet for a checkup. Check for physical problems first, but if your vet can’t find anything wrong physically and the symptoms continue, he may be depressed. It's important to verify whether or not your dog is sick or has a chemical imbalance that should be treated with medication. Canine depression can be triggered by many things, The loss of a family member, or another pet companion, a move to a new house, a new baby, or any number of life changes. Usually, depression in a dog occurs when he experiences a major change in his life, and he starts to feel many different emotions. A traumatic event such as injury or surgery can also result in depression in dogs.

Here are a few of the warning signs that your dog may be depressed:

Changes in Sleeping Habits

One of the most common signs of depression is a change in sleeping habits. Dogs typically sleep around 12 hours a day, but g, if you come home from work and your dog barely moves from his bed to greet you, this would signify illness or depression.

Changes in Eating Habits

Another common sign of depression in both humans and dogs is a change in appetite. Most dogs that are depressed will lose weight. When a dog suddenly loses interest in eating or he is not interested in his favorite treats, it is a sign that something is very wrong. If your vet has ruled out physical issues, then it can be a sign of depression.

Hiding and Avoiding People and Pets

When a dog feels depressed or sad, he displays avoidant behavior. Often, a dog hides when he suffers from an illness or injury, and he wants to be left alone. If you notice your dog is trying to hide and avoid interaction this is a sign of a physical illness or depression.

Excessive licking

Excessive licking or chewing may be rooted in physiological or psychological issues. Depressed dogs will often lick or chew their paws to soothe themselves. Destructive behavior

Another sign of possible canine depression is destructive behavior. A dog tends to display destructive behavior when he has some form of mental or emotional issues. Being sad for a prolonged time can make a dog aggressive and destructive. If your dog suddenly becomes destructive it is possible that he is depressed. If he has always been destructive, it is more likely he is bored and or under exercised.

Lack of interest in toys, walks and other things they love

If your dog suddenly loses interest in things they normally would love, walks, fetch cars rides, etc. this could be a sign of depression. What can you do to help your depressed dog?

Go outside! Together! Fun outdoor activities (with you) help to cheer up your dog. Try a game of fetch. If your dog isn’t a fetcher, try a walk or a game of tug o war. Outdoors, sunshine and play with his favorite person will help your dog feel happier and be healthier.

Make some new friends! Go to the dog park or visit a friend with a dog. If your dog is depressed from losing an animal companion, this can work wonders! If you decide to adopt a new puppy or dog to help your dog’s loneliness, introduce them slowly and give your old dog time to adjust.

Wait… Sometime your dog just needs time to adjust to a new situation, or if he is depressed due to the loss of a human or animal companion, he may just need time to grieve. Extra attention and love are always in order. If your dog likes to cuddle, spend some extra time snuggling on the sofa ( or floor) Some extra petting or brushing (if he likes it) or any positive interaction, can make your dog feel special and help him overcome depression.

#animaldepression #dog