Dog depression is a serious condition that affects many dogs. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from depression due to chemical imbalances in the brain, traumatic events, or major changes in their lives. Recognizing the signs of depression in your dog is the first step to getting them the help they need. Here is an overview of what dog depression looks like and how to identify it.
Loss of Interest in Activities
One of the most common signs of depression in dogs is a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. This includes things like going for walks, playing with toys, interacting with family members, or eating their favorite treats.
A depressed dog may seem listless or indifferent, even when you try engaging them in playtime or taking them on a walk. They may not get excited about things that used to bring them joy. Some signs of loss of interest include:
- Not getting excited for walks
- Ignoring favorite toys
- Not responding to family members
- Snubbing favorite treats or meals
This lack of enthusiasm is a red flag that your dog may be depressed. Healthy, happy dogs are eager to engage in play and quality time with their owners. A dog that has lost interest in daily activities that used to excite them may be withdrawing due to sadness or depression.
Changes in Sleeping Patterns
Depression can also disrupt a dog’s normal sleeping patterns. You may notice your dog sleeping much more or much less than usual. Changes in sleep behavior when depressed can include:
- Sleeping more during the day
- Appearing very tired, even after rest
- Waking up frequently at night
- Having difficulty falling asleep
Dogs naturally sleep a lot, but a sudden increase or decrease in sleep can signal an underlying problem like depression. If your once energetic dog is now sleeping the day away or is suddenly having trouble settling down at night, they may need an evaluation for mood disorders.
Changes in Appetite
Appetite changes are another sign of potential depression in dogs. While some dogs may start eating more when depressed, it’s more common for a depressed dog’s appetite to decrease. Signs of decreased appetite include:
- Skipping meals
- Disinterest in food or treats
- Needing to be coaxed to eat
- Weight loss
Monitor your dog’s eating habits closely. If they are leaving their food untouched at mealtimes or losing interest in favorite treats for several days, this points to a problem like depression reducing their appetite.
Change in Activity Level
When dogs get depressed, you may notice a change in their typical activity level. They may seem to have less energy overall and be far less active than usual. Signs of reduced activity include:
- Less interest in exercise or play
- Sleeping more during the day
- Moving slower on walks
- Getting winded more quickly
Some depressed dogs may even isolate themselves and spend more time alone, avoiding family members and hiding away in private spaces. This lethargic behavior and withdrawal from activity can help indicate if your dog is feeling down.
Anxiety Symptoms
Depression and anxiety often go hand-in-hand. A depressed dog may demonstrate increased anxious behaviors like:
- Pacing
- Restlessness
- Excessive licking
- Destructive chewing habits
- Following owners closely
These behaviors can crop up as a dog deals with depressed feelings. Separation anxiety may also worsen if a dog is struggling with depression at the same time.
Apathy and Sadness
Dogs experiencing depression often appear sad, dwell on negative thoughts, and disconnect from their surroundings. Some specific signs of apathy, sadness, and melancholy to look out for include:
- Less eager to greet family members
- Ignoring commands
- Moving head and tail lower than usual
- Avoiding eye contact
- No longer finding joy in life
While it may seem like your dog is just having an off day, ongoing apathy, sadness, and lack of joy are red flags for depression requiring veterinary support.
Aggression or Irritability
Some depressed dogs exhibit increased aggression or irritability. This includes behavior like:
- Unprovoked growling or snarling
- Biting or snapping at people or other pets
- Overreacting to things that previously caused no reaction
- Being difficult to handle or move
If your dog has noticed personality changes resulting in them acting out of character and displaying aggression, anxiety, or irritability, depression may be the cause.
Physical Symptoms
In some cases, dog depression may cause physical symptoms such as:
- Lack of regular bowel movements
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss or gain
- Dull coat
- Skin problems
These physical cues often accompany behavioral symptoms. If your dog seems ill or under the weather in combination with signs of depression, seek veterinary help. An underlying health issue could be contributing to their low mood.
Causes of Dog Depression
There are several potential causes for depression in dogs. The most common include:
- Genetics: Some breeds may inherit a predisposition to mood disorders.
- Loneliness: Dogs are social and become depressed when isolated.
- Boredom: Inadequate exercise and stimulation can lead to boredom and depression.
- Change: Big changes like a new home, new pet, or new baby can trigger depression.
- Loss: The loss of a family member (human or pet) can create grief and depression.
- Aging: As dogs age, chemical and brain changes may result in depression.
- Medical issues: Conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and cancer can lead to depressive symptoms.
Pay attention if symptoms arise after a major life change or loss. Also note any physical issues that could be making your dog feel unwell and contributing to sadness. Diagnosing the root cause will allow for proper treatment.
Risk Factors
Certain dogs have an increased risk for developing depression during their lifetime. These risk factors include:
- Breeds prone to anxiety or nervousness (ex. German Shepherds, Border Collies)
- Adoption from a shelter or puppy mill
- Traumatic early life (abuse, neglect, abandonment)
- Old age
- Lack of physical and mental stimulation
- Experiencing the loss of a companion (human or animal)
- Major changes in home life
- Existing health conditions
While any dog can develop depression, dogs with risk factors like these have higher odds. Their backgrounds and genetic tendencies make them more prone to mood changes and low-grade depression.
When to Seek Help
If your dog is displaying multiple signs of depression for more than a couple weeks, it’s time to seek professional help. Allowing the problem to remain untreated will only worsen their sadness and associated behavioral issues.
See your vet if your dog has appetite loss for more than 3 days, as this can point to a medical issue requiring rapid attention. Severe lethargy, isolation, or irritability also warrant an urgent vet visit to identify next steps.
Your vet can run tests to check for underlying physical causes impacting your dog’s mood. If no medical reason is found, they may recommend anti-depressants, supplement treatments, or lifestyle changes to help lift your dog’s depression naturally.
Diagnosing Dog Depression
There is no single test to diagnose dog depression. Vets will gather details about your dog’s behavior to distinguish depression from other potential issues like:
- Medical problems (arthritis, impaired sight/hearing, cancer etc.)
- Pain
- Side effects of medication
- Normal aging
Your vet will likely perform a senior wellness exam including:
- Physical exam
- Bloodwork
- Urine test
- Fecal exam
These tests help rule out conditions that could explain your dog’s symptoms. If no other cause is found, depression becomes the most likely diagnosis.
Common Diagnostic Tests
Tests your vet may perform to diagnose the cause of your dog’s symptoms include:
| Test | Checks for |
|---|---|
| Complete blood count (CBC) | Anemia, infection, inflammatory disease |
| Chemistry panel | Diabetes, kidney/liver disease, electrolyte imbalances |
| Urinalysis | UTIs, kidney disease, diabetes |
| Thyroid test | Hypothyroidism |
| Radiographs (x-rays) | Arthritis, cancer, organ issues |
Your vet will select the most appropriate tests based on your dog’s health history and type of symptoms shown.
Dog Depression Treatment
Dog depression requires prompt treatment tailored to your dog’s unique situation. Treatment options vets may recommend include:
- Medication – Antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds can improve mood.
- Supplements – Calming supplements like L-theanine may relieve depression.
- Routine – Consistent schedules for feeding, playtime, walks.
- Training – Obedience training builds confidence.
- Enrichment – Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, Kongs prevent boredom.
- Exercise – Daily walks and playtime boost feel-good endorphins.
- Socialization – Positive interactions with other pets/people.
In milder cases of depression, lifestyle adjustments coupled with supplement or herbal therapies can help dogs regain their pep. More severe, long-standing, or recurring depression usually requires prescription medications for full and lasting relief of symptoms. Follow your vet’s tailored recommendations to help lift your dog’s spirits.
Medications
The most common medications vets prescribe for dog depression include:
| Medication | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Fluoxetine | SSRI antidepressant that regulates serotonin |
| Clomipramine | TCA antidepressant that blocks reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine |
| Amitriptyline | TCA antidepressant with sedative and pain relief effects |
| Buspirone | Anti-anxiety medication that calms without sedation |
These medications help normalize your dog’s brain chemistry to relieve symptoms of depression. It can take 2-4 weeks to see improvement. Combination therapy is sometimes prescribed for full effect.
Supplements
Helpful over-the-counter supplements may include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Help regulate mood.
- SAM-e – Supports brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis.
- St. John’s Wort – Has anti-depressive and calming effects.
- Valerian – Relieves anxiety and nervousness.
Always check with your vet before giving your dog any supplements, including dosage information tailored to your dog’s size and health status.
Caring for a Depressed Dog
In addition to medical treatments, at-home care strategies can further help lift your dog’s mood. Try the following:
- Keep routines consistent for feeding, walks, playtime, and sleep.
- Spend more quality time together through play, training, massage, or cuddling.
- Use visual, audio, and scent enrichment tools to engage their mind.
- Try dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) collars or diffusers to induce calm.
- Ask your vet about prescription dog food to aid recovery.
- Avoid changes in environment until your dog is stable.
- Use baby gates to keep your dog close without separation.
With attentive home care coupled with professional treatment, most dogs can overcome depression and regain a happy, fulfilled life.
Preventing Dog Depression
You can help prevent your dog from developing depression by:
- Choosing mentally and physically stimulating activities daily to prevent boredom.
- Establishing regular feeding, exercise, training, and sleep routines.
- Exposing your dog to new experiences, environments, and people.
- Avoiding long periods left alone or isolated.
- Providing interactive puzzle toys for mental stimulation.
- Keeping their environment consistent with minimal stressful changes.
- Attending to any medical issues promptly to avoid discomfort or decline.
- Identifying and treating anxiety issues early before they deepen.
Meeting all your dog’s mental, physical, and socialization needs helps ensure a happy mindset and prevents mood disorders from developing.
Give Your Dog the Best Life
A depression diagnosis can be scary. But with proper treatment tailored to your dog’s needs, most pets can get back to a normal, happy life. Pay close attention for any potential symptoms, and seek veterinary advice if you suspect your dog may be depressed. Consistent treatment coupled with lifestyle adjustments and supportive care will help them overcome depression and regain a joyful spirit.