How to Treat a Dog's Depression

Just like humans, dogs can get depressed. And as with people, it can be brought on by different things. Some common signs are lack of appetite, lethargy, change in personality and clinginess. Since dogs can’t talk and you can never really know for sure what’s "eating them"—the following are ways to help bring them back around.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Enroll your sociable dog in doggie daycare or hire a dog walker/pet sitter for your dog who prefers people, if being left alone causes separation anxiety. If you’re planning a vacation, consider boarding your sociable dog at a kennel with cage-free daycare so that he can interact with other dogs, or hire an overnight pet sitter for your people-oriented dog. If at all possible, how about taking him along for the trip?
2. Give extra love and attention to the dog who is depressed from the loss of a dog companion or guardian. Visits to the off-leash dog park, playdates, rides in the car, and just being around humans and other animals can help.
3. Consider getting another dog if your dog’s depression appears to be from the loss of a canine companion or from simply being left alone.
4. Take your dog for an examination and blood test if the above remedies don’t seem to work. Once physical causes are ruled out, your veterinarian might prescribe an anti-depressant such as Prozac.
5. Check with a veterinarian who is familiar with your dog’s medical history about treating his grief and depression with a herbal or holistic formula. Mainstream vets are normally reluctant to green light these types of remedies, but if you explain that it’s something you really want to try, they might be more open to discussing it. There are also holistic veterinarians that you can consult with.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult with a veterinarian before administering any type of over-the-counter medication or herbal treatment to your dog.