• low energy/ refusing treats/ change in sleep pattern
One of the most common misconceptions we have about dogs is that they don’t experience the same emotions as we do. This is inaccurate. Dogs have the ability to feel greater ranges of emotions than most owners have ever imagined. These sentiments can vary from excitement, joy and contentment to anxiety, stress, and even depression. Yes, dogs can get depressed too! It may not exactly be as complex as human depression, but dogs can feel great sorrow too. Curiously, depression in dogs may be more observable during winters because in cold seasons it is a little hard to give dogs the exercise they require. As a result, many dogs get fewer walks, lesser exercises, limited time to play outdoors, and other things they love and adore get reduced because of the climate. Whereas sadness in other cases can be detected when a life-changing event triggers it.
Ø TYPES OF SYMPTOMS
Just like in humans, different types of symptoms can be seen in a depressed dog. Some symptoms can be related to the:
The physique of the dog – A depressed dog may show extreme weight loss, refusal to eat/drink, shedding a lot of hair etc.
The emotional state of the dog – Due to the depression the dog may even show signs such as loss of interest in things they once enjoyed, less interaction with other dogs, aggression etc.
Ø SYMPTOMS OF DOG DEPRESSION
But how do we know if a dog is depressed or not? Some symptoms we can notice are:
1. Low activity level.
2. Change to eating habits; Loss or gain of appetite (depending on the dog).
3. Loss of interest in the things they once were fond of.
4. High/low amount of time resting or sleeping (varies from dog to dog)
5. Showing signs of anxiety or anger by howling, whining, jumping etc.
6. Excessive licking on paws, etc.
7. Reduced interaction with other dogs.
8. Aggression in the house.
9. Might be either clingy to their owners or may back away from humans altogether.
10. Might also become somewhat destructive, less obedient, quieter, or more vocal etc.
Ø CAUSES OF DEPRESSION IN DOGS
Some common triggers may include:
1. Grief felt while mourning their owners or a dog friend.
2. Sudden changes in the environment, such as a house move, addition of a baby family member etc.
3. Chronic pain/health issues.
4. Social isolation from other dogs or humans.
5. Trauma, anxiety, abuse, stress etc.
6. Insufficient physical activities or mental nourishment. High energy driven dogs are the most affected by this.
Ø HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR DOG IF IT'S DEPRESSED?
Dogs are simple creatures. They are very resilient. Often some simple environmental change/social change can make huge differences for a dog. Some ways we could help dogs if they are depressed are -
1. Spend more time with your dog, play with him and give him belly rubs.
2. Make your dog engage with other dogs frequently.
3. Reward your dog’s positive behaviour.
4. Keep them engaged.
5. Exercise with your dog.
[intro – symptoms of dog depression can be the first post; causes and help can be the 2nd post]
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