How to tell if dog is depressed

If you have a dog, you (probably) already know they can express their feelings like humans do. That means your little pup can become sad and withdrawn when they are stressed out, which can lead to depression if it lingers for too long. To get them feeling happy and relaxed again, you might want to meet with a vet to see what's going on (and to rule out any physical conditions), but you can also try a few habit changes and lifestyle tweaks to get them back to normal.

Turns out, dogs can be depressed for a variety of reasons. "Dogs can be depressed if they lost a family member, a kid went off to college or another dog in the house passed away. I see depression a lot in dogs whose families have gone through a divorce," says Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, Veterinary Consultant for Dog Lab.

Ochoa adds that dogs can get very attached to people and other pets, so when these relationships change they can show signs of depression. If you think your dog is down in the dumps, here are the signs to look for and how to help them heal.

"Most dogs that are depressed will lay around more and not really want to interact with other people in the house," says Ochoa. It could be their age, but if it's suddenly come on, or they're sleeping way too often, then it might be depression." Have you recently changed your routine? Try to play with your dog using their favorite toy or take them for a walk. "Fresh air does a world of good for the brain," says Conrad Rossouw, a certified dog trainer based in Scotland.

Sad and stressed dogs may also not want to eat or drink. "They may also stop eating their food, but will eat people food," says Ochoa. So, look for any change from the normal diet and cravings. She adds, "Any change in appetite can be a sign of depression, but can also be a sign of something else." So, see a vet too.

They could also be getting fatter, rather than skinnier. "This usually goes hand in hand with a lack of exercise and stimulation. Try and take your dog for a walk," says Rossouw. And look at their calorie intake. Are you feeding them too much? They might be getting too much food compared to the exercise they're doing, which would be unrelated to stress and sadness.

If your pet is depressed they may be hiding more. "You may find them sleeping under the bed or in a closet. This is a common sign seen with depressed dogs," says Ochoa. If they are disappearing or trying to be withdrawn in odd places in the home, they could be feeling stressed or sad. Try playing a game or giving them more attention to make them feel happier and more relaxed.

When a dog is depressed they may lick their feet. Why? "This is a calming method for many dogs," says Ochoa. Constant licking and grooming is a sign that your dog is trying to comfort themselves. Rossouw says, "Doing it too much means it becomes a habit. If you've ruled out any medical issues, then I'd recommend getting your dog back in to a routine, and playing games with them to stimulate their mind."

Depressed dogs might suddenly not want to go for walks anymore. They might not jump up and down when you get their leash, run to the door or react when you try and get them to take a walk, says Steffi Trott, a professional dog trainer. She says, "Depressed dogs have a generally decreased sense of excitement and happiness, and this might show in their refusal to go for walks."

Dogs love people, especially if you have a breed that is known for being extremely outgoing and friendly, such as a Golden Retriever or Labrador. Trott says, "Depressed dogs feel low, generally sad and uninterested about life, and this may be shown in their reaction to people."

The same goes for their dog pals, too. "If your dog also does not want to play with his doggy friends, he is definitely depressed. Exuberance is a common sign of dog-to-dog play, and if it is missing, your dog may be depressed," says Trott.

First, make sure that he is in good physical health by seeing a vet. "Often dogs become depressed as a result of pain or illness. If your dog shows the above signals, take him to the vet to make sure he does not have an underlying condition," says Trott.

If something has recently changed (a move, another dog in the family died, the schedule is different, etc.), dogs may be depressed and confused due to the recent stress. Make sure to keep your daily schedule on track as much as possible, since routines make dogs feel safe and secure.

And "give your dog plenty of time to rest, and a comfortable and snuggly space to do so. Feeling well-rested and relaxed will make your dog much happier," Trott adds.

You can also plan an adventurous outing. Trott says, "This can be getting him a vanilla ice cream cone at a drive-through or going to the park. Cheer him up with a fun activity." That will make them feel alive once again!

It's true, dogs are capable of suffering from depression and anxiety. This is because they are intelligent creatures who, like humans, experience a range of emotions.

What causes depression and anxiety in dogs?

A major change or a distressing event in a dog’s life can sometimes bring on symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.

For example, the loss of its owner or a companion animal, or even a sense of grief being experienced by those around them, can all affect a dog's overall emotions. 

Big life changes, such as a move to a new house, a new baby or a new pet, may also have an impact on a dog's emotions. Generally, any significant change to your dog’s daily routine may bring on symptoms of depression or anxiety. 

How do I know if my dog has depression?

The symptoms of depression in dogs are similar to those experienced by people. 

Common symptoms include low activity levels, a loss in interest in the things they once enjoyed, and a change in eating and/or sleeping habits.

Some dogs may also show signs of aggression, including uncharacteristic howling or whining.

How do I know if my dog has anxiety?

Signs of anxiety in dogs may include trembling, tail-tucking, hiding, reduced activity and passive escape behaviors. They may also experience signs of panic including panting, pacing and active escape behavior. 

Physical symptoms of anxiety in dogs may include sympathetic autonomic nervous system activity, like diarrhea, or lesions causing them to lick or bite their own body. 

How can I help treat my dog's depression or anxiety?

The good news is that dogs can often overcome depression and/or anxiety on their own. Depending on the dog and the situation, it can take days to months. No matter what, the love and care of their owners, and sometimes some guidance from your veterinarian, can help them overcome the blues. 

Pet owners can try the following techniques:

• Offer your dog more attention. But wait until you see some signs of happiness, like a wagging tail, and reward them for that behavior.
• Keep your dog active with regular walks, playtimes, and other activities you know they enjoy.
• If your dog's symptoms are related to the loss of an animal companion, consider getting another pet or start socializing them with other pets.

Depending on the severity of their symptoms your veterinarian may also prescribe anti-anxiety medication as well as recommend behavior management techniques.

In some cases, depression and/or anxiety may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition in a dog. If your pet has not recently experienced a major life change or distressing event, talk to your veterinarian about what else could be troubling them.

To learn more about anxiety and depression in dogs, or to seek treatment options, contact our Southeast Memphis vets to book an appointment today. 

It may seem far fetched but in today's fast paced world, just as in their human counterparts, cases of canine depression are increasing rapidly. If your dog has been acting off lately, sleeping a lot, not eating or drinking as much and has lost interest with things like going for walks or car rides, you may have wondered, “Is my dog depressed?” likely followed by, “Can dogs even get depressed?” The short answer is yes. Because depression symptoms mimic many illnesses, the first thing to do is get your pup to the vet. Check for physical problems first, but if you can’t find anything 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. 

So how do you know if your dog is depressed? What are the symptoms?

#1. Changes in Sleeping Habits

It's no secret that dogs sleep a lot, particularly when their owners are gone. However, you should be concerned if you leave your dog for a long time (say, for work) and he continues to sleep after you get home, barely reacting to your presence, something is probably wrong, or if he stays curled up instead of coming to the window or door for things that once attracted him, like the visitors or a passing dog.

#2. Paw 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.

#3. Loss of interest

If your dog suddenly loses interest in playing, going for walks, and other things that would normally excite her, take note. Dogs who become less active, slow down, or seem to lose purpose may be suffering from dog depression.

#4. Changes in diet

Most dogs will eat less and lose weight when depressed. On the other hand, just like humans, some dogs may eat more as a form of comfort. Watch out for:

• Refusing treats that he once loved

• Weight gain or weight loss

If you can identify what's triggering depression in your pet, you'll learn to spot the symptoms earlier. This will help you figure how to help your pet feel better.

• Environmental Changes As with people, events going on around your pet can cause him to feel depressed and anxious. Changes in a dog's environment or living circumstances can trigger depression and anxiety. For example, dogs can experience depression and grief when another pet or human member of the household is ill or dies. This is also true when a family member moves away or changes schedules. When summer ends and your dog is suddenly alone most of the day after having children around all summer, symptoms of depression triggered by separation anxiety and loneliness can occur.

• Weather and Seasonal Changes  Just as in humans, changes in seasons can have an impact on pet moods, as do periods of extended bad weather. For example, the moods of dogs that live in areas where hurricanes occur can be impacted by the change in atmospheric pressure. Additionally, just as the onset of winter can lead to seasonal affective disorder in some people, it can also an impact on dogs.

• Loss of a Companion  This is probably the number one cause of depression in dogs. Dogs create strong emotional bonds with both their fellow dogs (and in some cases other small animals and even beloved toys or blankets) whom they see regularly as well as those who care for them. The loss of a friend or loved one is difficult on everyone and this is no different for your dog and they need ample time to grieve.

• Get Some Sunshine: Sometimes we forget that dogs were originally wild animals who love nature and the outdoors. This is still rooted in your dog’s instincts so his depression could be linked to a lack of outdoor activity. Try getting your dog to go on more walks or to play fetch with you in the yard. If this seems to cheer him up a bit, then do this periodically throughout the day and you are sure to see long-term improvement.

• Make Friends: Whether this is with a friend’s dog or a trip to the dog park having a companion or two can often boost your dog’s mood. If you have recently lost an older dog, then this could be a great way to help get your dog out of a funk. If you can bring a new dog into your home, with proper introduction and a little time to adjust, a new friend might be the best way to help your dog through a tough time.

• Be Patient: Sometimes – especially if the issue was a loss of a companion or master – the only thing that will heal a dog’s heart is time. It may be as few as a couple days or as much as a few months, but most dogs will be able to pull themselves out of depression with a little time and understanding. Do your best to be there for your dog for the time being and always encourage happy moments, but remember that this is not going to be an overnight change.

• Give a Little Extra Love: Just a little extra attention can go a long way with a depressed dog. Sit with them often, showing you support and care for them as much as you always have. This can be especially helpful if you think the root cause of your dog’s depression is due to being lonely throughout the day while you are at work.