Did you know that even dogs can get the blues? Just like us humans, dogs can feel down, depressed, and stressed. They might not binge Netflix or eat a pint of ice cream like we might when we are feeling down, but there are specific symptoms we can look for in our dogs.
With symptoms of depression, dogs can become inactive or withdrawn, their sleeping habits might change, and they might not be enjoying things they used to, like playing. Stress can cause your pup to pace, whine, yawn, or pant more than normal.
If you notice any of these changes or new habits in your dog, the first thing you should do is contact your vet. Some of these symptoms could be caused by a medical condition like arthritis or a food allergy. Once you determine it’s not a medical concern, it’s time to figure out what’s causing these issues and get your pup treated.
Just like in humans, major life changes are stressful. Moving to a new home, welcoming a new person or pet into the household, losing a companion, or changing daily activities can trigger depression and stress. Other causes can be loud noises or boredom and frustration.
The easiest way to help your pup recover from this is to keep them engaged and doing things they enjoy. Reward tail wags and interactions with praise and pets. Make sure you stick to your routines and provide a safe, quiet place for your dog to relax. If a dog has recently lost a companion, sometimes getting a new pet can help. In certain cases, a dog will need medication in addition to the treatments above to move on from stress and depression. Be sure to contact your veterinarian if you don’t feel your pup is headed towards the road to recovery.