Is my dog depressed?

Dogs, like their owners, can experience the symptoms of anxiety and depression from time to time. If you think that your pup is feeling anxious or depressed try out these easy suggestions from our Huntersville vets to help your dog to feel happier and more contented.

Depression & Anxiety in Dogs

Do your dog's nerves seem to be on edge, or is your pooch behaving in a way that leads you to believe they may be anxious or depressed?

Check out the list of symptoms below. If your dog is exhibiting three or more of the following signs of depression or anxiety, a trip to your vet can help to pinpoint whether your pup's symptoms are caused by depression, anxiety, or something else:

Signs of Dog Depression

Signs of Dog Anxiety

Causes of Depression & Anxiety in Dogs

Dogs feel most contented when their day-to-day activities stick to a regular routine. This means that any major life changes or distressing events can have a huge impact on their emotional state.

While obviously emotional events such as their owner’s death or prolonged absence can bring on symptoms of anxiety or depression in dogs, other less extreme events such as a move to a new home, injury or illness, change in routine, or even a new pet or person in the home could be the cause of your pup's case of the blues.

Simple Ways to Help Your Pup to Feel Better

Dogs that are anxious or depressed benefit from predictable routines and environments, closely monitored social interactions, and lots of physical activity. Below are a few more tips on how to help reduce your dog's depression:

See Your Vet

Some symptoms linked to depression and anxiety can actually have physical causes that need urgent veterinary attention. The first thing you should do if your dog doesn't seem happy is to schedule a visit with your vet.

Although dogs will often recover from depression with just a little extra love and attention from their pet parent, your veterinarian can provide medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety aids to help calm their nerves if things don’t show signs of improvement.

Keep Your Dog Busy

Bored pets often get into mischief, and become anxious or depressed. Make sure your pooch gets plenty of exercise before you leave the house for the day, and supply your pup with enough toys to keep them busy and help curb dog anxiety. Look for toys that are interactive or can be stuffed with treats to keep your dog's body and mind active while you're out of the house.

Social Time With People & Animals

It's important for pet parents to remember that dogs are social creatures that love to be around people and other animals. If your pup seems lonely and sad try taking your pooch to the dog park, group classes or doggie daycare for additional social interaction. You may even want to consider getting a companion animal for your dog.

Plenty of Love & Patience

Dogs need lots of love and patience to feel safe and contented - even more so if they are feeling depressed or anxious. By giving your pup a little extra time and attention you may be able to alleviate these issues.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.