Dogs, like humans, can experience depression from time to time. Depression in dogs isn’t really the same complex clinical condition as it is in humans.

Symptoms of Depression in Dogs

The degree of the symptoms and the indicators of depression displayed by each dog will vary. Decreased hunger, lethargic behaviour, and altered body language during interactions with people and dogs are a few things to look out for. Hostile behaviour, such as unusual wailing or whining, is also a prevalent indicator.

Causes of Depression in Dogs

1. Health issues: Dogs might get depressed due to a variety of health issues. Before things become worse, it’s critical to rule out a physical cause for your dog’s strange behaviour.
2. Grief: Dogs, like humans, can mourn the loss of human and animal companions.
3. Environmental Changes: Moving to a new house, an overall change of environment (such as a remodelling), or perhaps even the weather might have a negative impact on a usually happy dog. Major environmental changes normally take time for your dog to acclimatise to.
4. Fear: Your dog may be depressed as a result of a fear or phobia. Your dog may be attempting to hide its fear in order to avoid becoming more vulnerable. To protect itself, it just withdraws from routine activities.
5. Trauma, including injury, abuse, or long-term stress.
6. Inadequate cognitive and/or physical activity. This is particularly true for working breeds that are high-energy and driven.

Treatment for Depression in Dogs

If your dog’s depression is caused by a major event, basic environmental and social improvements such as spending more time with them, taking them on long walks, playing tug, or even having a grooming session may often have a huge impact. Your dog will usually be able to overcome depression with a little additional time, extra care, and pleasurable stimulation.

Sometimes a dog’s depression is a more serious, long-term ailment that necessitates additional attention. Professional behavioural counselling is recommended, and medication may be beneficial in some cases.