The symptoms of depression in dogs are similar to those experienced by people. Common symptoms include low activity levels, a loss in interest in the things they once enjoyed, and a change in eating and/or sleeping habits. Some dogs may also show signs of aggression, including uncharacteristic howling or whining.
The key is to keep your dog active, entertained, and show them that you really care for them. The endorphins released during these activities are a sure-fire way to reduce negative feelings associated with dog depression.
Still, the things that make your dog sad are often the same types of things that make you sad, like physical pain, loneliness, loss of a loved one, abuse, and neglect, Dr. Simon says. While most canine sadness is brief, sometimes dogs can experience very deep and long-lasting sadness that may turn into dog depression.
WHINING, CRYING, AND HOWLING
It can be a sure sign they're feeling neglected. That may mean more exercise, engagement, or training sessions are in order. But be sure to keep an eye on your dog's progress with this, as whining and howling that don't get better may be a sign of anxiety or pain.
If your pup is disappearing or withdrawing to odd places in the home, they could be feeling stressed or sad. "You may find them sleeping under the bed or in a closet. This is a common sign seen with depressed dogs," says Ochoa. Try playing a game or giving them more attention to make them feel happier and more relaxed.
What can trigger my dog to act distant? Stressful experiences, illness and pain, and negative training methods break a dog's spirit. They take their hormones and emotions into a crazy roller coaster; all which can trigger a dog to act distant.
Anxiety and Stress Can Cause Distancing
Fear and anxiety can all cause sudden distant behavior in dogs. You may notice your dog distancing themselves after scary events like loud noises or sudden environmental changes. Some may even try to hide under the bed or in other places where they feel safer.
A good starting place is to keep your dog busy and treat them to the things they love. Extra car rides or trips to the dog park are good ways to boost morale. Exercise can also result in a healthy body as well as a healthy mind. And doing activities with your dog can help cure chronic loneliness and jealousy.
There are several reasons that could be causing your dog to appear tired and listless. The most common causes of lethargy in dogs are: Infection, including parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough and leptospirosis. Metabolic diseases, such as heart problems, liver problems, diabetes, and hypoglycaemia.
Sleeping More Than Usual and Being Lethargic
Most dogs are lazy animals who sleep a lot especially when their owners are not around. However, if the dog starts to sleep most of the day especially when the owners are back home and there is hustle and bustle in the home, then your dog might be suffering from depression.
Something in His Environment Changed
A sudden change in his surroundings could cause him to suddenly avoid you or even make him depressed. Did you move, introduce a new person or pet, or make drastic changes to your home? Just the presence of strange noises can cause anxiety in some dogs.
A dog who suddenly becomes disinterested in his pack may be experiencing a wide range of emotions, such as jealousy, anxiety or depression. Has anything changed in your home environment recently? Maybe someone moved into your home (or out of it). Maybe you've been taking him for walks less often than usual.
He may have been trained as a pup not to lick — by someone who's a better trainer than I am — or he may simply have other ways he prefers to use to communicate with you or show you affection. If your dog isn't a licker, don't fret — just enjoy your saliva-free life!
Why Isolating Himself Occurs in Dogs. Your dog may be isolating himself because of a mental or physical condition, the reason of which could vary. Anxieties and fears are commonly seen in dogs, and can develop due to a number of reasons, such as poor socialization or trauma.
Like us humans, dogs tend to act differently if something is wrong with them. They may become less interested in food, not be excited about play-time, or be less active in general. You might also see changes in their sleep patterns. So if something feels out of the ordinary, it might be time to talk to the vet.
They are less playful and more lethargic.
If your dog's been sleeping more than average, not playing or interacting as much, or responding to your calls, they could be depressed and lonely.
So, it is normal for your dog to sleep or rest for a majority of the day. However, excessive sleep can be concerning for any pet owner. If your dog is sleeping too much, this could indicate health issues, such as canine depression, diabetes and hypothyroidism, says the AKC.
“Just like people, different dogs have different levels of need for affection, and they will let you know if they're feeling neglected.” Of course, it's not always easy to figure out what they're trying to tell us. That's why we've compiled this list of signs that your dog probably needs some TLC.
Environmental disturbances or life changes can also lead to depression in dogs. “One of the more common reasons for dogs feeling unhappy can be during a time of grief, either for a previous owner or if they lived with another dog that passed away,” Markham says.
The experts say: "When they aren't properly stimulated and can't expend all of their natural energy, a dog's boredom levels can turn into sadness. Just like humans, when dogs are active their brains release dopamine and serotonin - the 'feel good' chemicals which supercharge their mood."
If nothing else works, medications can help dogs get past their depression. Karen Sueda, DVM, a diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, said medications for depressed dogs are the same as those used by depressed humans -- Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft.