About Dog Depression

Just like their owners, dogs can develop depression. There are a number of causes for dog depression, but regardless of cause it is essential that you recognize the symptoms. Dogs' personalities and behaviors can drastically change due to depression.

Significance

Dog depression is serious, and owners must respond accordingly. When a dog becomes depressed, it is usually because of a major lifestyle change and the dog will behave differently as a result. This can cause disharmony in the household and, if ignored, the dog may even suffer physically. Owners should realize that dogs can suffer in the same ways that humans can. To maintain a healthy dog and a happy home, depression needs to be dealt with.

Types

There are several causes for dog depression. The death of a loved one can be traumatic for a dog, whether it be the death of an owner, another human the dog bonded with, or another animal the dog had a relationship with. A change of home or owner are two causes of dog depression that, in a way, are similar to the death of a loved one. In both cases, dogs are forced into a new environment where they may be missing a place or person from an old home. Bringing a new addition to the home--whether it be of the four-legged or two-legged variety--can be difficult on a dog. Remember, dogs are territorial, and a new individual, particularly another animal, can be viewed as an intruder.

Effects

Depression can have many effects on dogs. They may become lethargic with no energy to run and play. Dogs can lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, like a favorite game. Often times they lose interest in eating and owners may have to resort to hand-feeding just to get food into the dog. They can also choose to spend most of their time sleeping. In some cases, dogs may become aggressive as a way of acting out against changes that are thrust upon them. This may be with growling, little toleration for normal household noise and activities, or maybe the destruction of household items or property.

Prevention/Solution

Time is the number one component in a dog adjusting to a new situation, and an owner has to give the pet time to heal. When owners move and dogs are forced to live in a new environment, it can be very overwhelming. To help a dog adjust, create a designated space that is just for him. This can be where he eats, sleeps and plays. A dog adjusting to a new home needs something familiar with him, such as a favorite toy or blanket. It's also important that owners give their dogs lots of love and attention, since pets often are not as much as a priority when people are relocating. As for a change of owner, a dog, particularly a younger one, can be resilient as long as the new owners treat him well and are caring and attentive. To help a dog that is depressed because of a new person in the home, owners should not force the dog to interact with the new individual. Let the dog approach the person on his terms. Getting a depressed dog to get along with a new pet in the home can be a little more challenging, but it's necessary to let the animals sniff and "check each other out." If there seems to be tension, take things in baby steps and never leave the two together unattended.

Warning

When dogs are depressed, they often act out with behavior changes that are less than desirable. They may have accidents on the floor even if they are house-trained, or they may destroy an item in the house. It is imperative that owners do not lose their tempers with dogs that are acting out in this way, as that can escalate the problem. Another fact to remember is that the symptoms of dog depression can mirror symptoms of physical illnesses. If you are unaware of any changes made in the dog's lifestyle or if it has been several days and the dog's symptoms are not improving, it's important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. In the case of a dog not eating due to depression, that should not be allowed to continue for more than a couple of days before a veterinarian is contacted.