Why Dog Depression Occurs
It's true: dogs do feel depressed from time to time. They go through the blues and they react to life changes in a similar way that people do. They experience grief, stress and mourning and each of these things can set them off in a state of depression. Losing a member of his dog family or people family can be very damaging. Moving to a new home or living with a family going through a divorce can also affect them.
Dog Depression may also result from living in a shelter where he does not get enough attention or affection. Even the best shelter can't compare to the dog having a home and owner of his own.
Being raised in an abusive environment can also lead to Dog Depression. Though some dogs will get mean and tend to fight back, others take a more submissive role and tend to retreat from people and activities to cope with their fear.
Symptoms of Dog Depression
It should be pretty obvious when your dog isn't feeling like himself. He may have little or no appetite, no interest in normal games and activities and may he seem a little more lazy than usual. A common response to a neglectful environment is withdrawal.
Treating Dog Depression
The first thing to do is schedule a trip to the vet to rule out any physical issues. If depression seems to be the problem with your unhappy dog, the vet may prescribe medicine to relieve the symptoms.
When depressed, your dog may spend more time sleeping and less time grooming himself. It may take some extra effort on your part to assist in grooming the dog until he is well again.
Long walks and other forms of exercise are also known to reduce the effects of depression. Engage your dog in a game of Frisbee or catch to get his endorphins going again.
It can never be emphasized enough that the best medicine for dog depression is more love and attention. Never punish a dog for sleeping too much. Simply encourage him to play when he is awake and cuddle when he is sitting still.
