Dog Depression:

Chocolate. Massages. Shopping or Sports. Sure, we know what remedies will help you get out of a little funk of depression, but what you may not know is your own dog may be experiencing dog depression – something a little chocolate can’t cure. As your puppy develops, including during the first stages when it’s experiencing dog separation anxiety as you, the pet owner, replaces the mom, it’s important to have healthy relationships.

Dog depression in puppies may be demonstrated by intense calmness. Your pup may show indifference towards the outer world. It won’t make eye contact with you; in fact, it may run away from physical contact. The depressed puppy doesn’t like to be held, it may howl and it certainly doesn’t play. Depressed dogs also don’t enjoy going out for a walk and may not even move when you do finally get it outside.

Dog depression in adults is signified by the incapability to react on its own. If your dog is experiencing stress, whether it’s the loss of a companion, a change in its surroundings, for example, it will stay still. It won’t eat and it may moan or wail.

There are things you can do to help. If your depressed dog is not being active or social, you may consider doggie daycare. This will create an environment for your dog to interact with other dogs. In another example, if you’re about to embark on a vacation one recommendation is having your depressed dog boarded at a kennel that’s cage-free so he can interact with other dogs.

If your depressed dog is experiencing a sense of loss of a companion or guardian, shower him with love and attention. Take time and visit a dog run, set up playdates, fun rides in the car, and just being around each other. This will help the depressed dog.

In another instance, dog depression is demonstrated by regression. Your dog may seem like it’s a puppy again and has forgotten everything! Sadly, this may happen to old dogs as they enter senility. One solution may be antidepressants but of course we recommend seeing a veterinarian for this.

Aggressive dogs may be a result of dog depression. Basically, if dog depression is not recognized and attempted to be resolved, aggressive behaviors may result. Dog depression in the form of aggression may be acted out differently; dogs are essentially in their wild state. It could be a clash of behavior between two dogs, a dog and a person, etc. This is when it’s in a predator and prey mode. Overall, as the responsible pet owner once you are aware of your dog’s behavior and get help, dog depression can and will be overcome.

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being. For more information about dog depression, dog behavior, and dog training click here.