Pups can get depressed just like people. Here are the causes of depression in dogs along with possible solutions.

Key takeaways:

• Dog depression symptoms and causes are similar to those in people.

• It’s important to rule out an underlying medical condition.

• Give your dog a routine to look forward to, including exercise and socializing.

• Give your pup some extra love.

• Your vet may be able to recommend medications.

Dogs have complex emotions just like people. They bring so much joy to our lives, and with that joy comes a lot of responsibility! The more we learn about our dogs and their behaviors, the more we can understand the depth and range of their emotions.

We know when our dogs are happy and excited, but did you know they can also experience the other end of the emotional spectrum? The truth is that dogs get depressed just like people. This article will help you identify the warning signs of depression in dogs, plus give you some ways to boost their spirits.

The debate over depression in dogs

Some vets claim we can’t know for sure if a dog is depressed, because we can’t ask them how they feel. As a result, we have to be detectives to figure out what’s going on inside our pets’ minds. Vets caution dog parents to look first at medical conditions. Ask yourself:

• Is your dog reluctant to play or slowing down?

• Have you noticed a change in eating or sleeping patterns?

• Is your dog getting older?

If you notice a major change in your dog’s behavior, schedule a vet visit immediately. Rule out injuries or sickness first, then consider the possibility that your dog is depressed.

Know the causes of depression in dogs

Dogs get depressed for many of the same reasons as people. Some of the causes might include:

• Their environment has changed. Have you recently moved? All of the changes in surroundings and routines might be causing your dog stress.

• Loss of a loved one. If you had two dogs but lost one recently, your surviving pup might be sad because a playmate is missing. A dog’s family member passing away can also trigger depression.

• They suffered trauma or pain from abuse. Did your dog spend a lot of time in a shelter or get rehomed from an abusive situation? The emotional effects of long-term kenneling or poor treatment can have negative impacts.

• They are left alone for long periods. Dogs are social creatures and like being members of a pack. Solitary confinement and prolonged isolation for a dog can lead to depression.

• They are bored. Dogs need physical and mental activity. A lack of regular exercise can cause dogs to slip into a funk. Just like people, getting their brains and bodies active is good for them.

If one or more of these things happen to your dog, it may lead to depression. But what are the signs you should look for?

Learn to recognize the signs of depression in dogs

Many of the signs of depression in dogs are similar to those you might see in people. Dogs that are depressed may:

• Become listless

• Show no interest in things they used to enjoy

• Stop eating or drinking

• Become overly needy

Keep your eye on your dog’s behavior. Compare it to normal behavior. There are things you can do to help your dog out of a funk if there is no underlying medical cause.

How to help your dog combat depression

You’ve noticed your dog’s changing behaviors. Your vet has determined there’s nothing physically wrong. Your pup just seems “off.” What can you do? There are several possible solutions:

• Establish a routine – Dogs crave routine and want the expected. Stick to a predictable schedule of food, exercise, and playtime. Dogs who learn a new routine may be more comfortable in their new surroundings.

• Give plenty of exercise – Dogs need and want physical activity. Take yours for twice-daily walks. The physical exertion may help brighten your pup’s mood, much like “runner’s high” in people.

• Let your dog sniff things during walks – Dogs are curious creatures and like to explore what’s around them. Part of the benefit of a walk is giving your pup time to sniff. Sniffing is how they learn what’s going on around them. Give your dog time to check things out while walking.

• Provide additional mental stimulation – Dogs are task-driven animals. They like to figure things out and solve problems. One way to spark their brains is with toys. Provide your dog with treat toys they have to work for. Try Kongs, which are rubber toys you can fill with treats. Snuffle mats – cloth mats with nooks and crannies that provide hiding spots for treats – are another great option so long as your pup isn’t into eating fabric.

• Give your dog socialization – Try taking your dog to a dog park, daycare, or other places where other dogs hang out. Meeting and interacting with other dogs may do the trick.

• Offer plenty of extra love – Sometimes your dog may just want attention and some extra cuddle time. Offer extra love and treats when you see signs of your dog perking up for a simple positive reinforcement technique.

• Consider medication – Like people, medication can sometimes help right the ship. If you’ve tried everything else, talk to your vet about the possibility of medication.

As a pet parent, you have many things to track to keep your dog healthy. Remember a dog’s needs are not just physical but mental, too. Keep your eye on your dog. If you notice any behavior changes, take action.

Join the monthly care club at Scenthound and rely on our experts to help keep your pup clean and healthy. After every routine care and grooming visit, you’ll receive our S.C.E.N.T Check ™ report detailing our assessment of your dog’s skin, coat, ears, nails, teeth, and glands. Your Scenthound technician will get to know your pup and help you stay on top of any issues that could turn into larger problems if ignored.