Depression is a sad sickness that can have serious effects on a person’s life. When someone is depressed they are constantly sad and view life through a negative lens. Depressed people often visit psychologists with whom they discuss their depression, in order to overcome it. Unfortunately, dogs do not speak human words about what they are thinking. We have to closely evaluate their behavior changes to discover if something is wrong. Sometimes these behavior changes can manifest to an illness and you need to consult your veterinarian.

“Some signs of depression could include behavior or personality changes, clinginess, increased sleep, lethargy and loss of appetite that could lead to weight loss, whining or vocalizing” said Dr. M.A. Crist, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. “The loss of another dog can lead to symptoms of depression. This may be a “housemate” that might have passed, or the neighborhood playmate that moved away. The pet may lose interest in their favorite play activities, sleeping more, becoming distant from the family and disinterested, or experience the loss of appetite.”

Another emotional change that upsets the steadiness in their life can be the loss of a human friend, such as the son or daughter that moves away, or their beloved human companion that departs from this earth.

“Owners will often tell us that their pet appears to be grieving the loss of a beloved canine or human companion by describing these behavior changes” said Crist. “The addition of a new family member human or animal, moving to a new city or home, and sometimes weather or season may trigger a depressive state if the dog loves being outside and the weather does not permit it. Occasionally health issues can be the reasons for depression, therefore one should always have the veterinarian examine their pet when they notice any behavioral changes in their pet.”

A great deal of human depression is associated with psychological disorders, and is oftentimes considered one. But canine depression comes mostly from external experiences. Animals can sometimes act depressed if they have been physically injured, so be sure to look for these injuries if your pet begins to behave in such a manner.

“Sometimes, if the behavioral changes are allowed to continue from the depression because of the loss of a loved one or canine companion, the pet may develop separation anxiety” said Crist. “This is now a psychological disorder and usually needs intervention from your veterinarian who may refer them to an animal behaviorist, and sometimes medications will need to be dispensed. We also hope that breeders keep the genetic or hereditary component to depression eliminated by their high standards and their selection process to avoid any of these problems.”

If your dog is acting depressed, he may have a chemical imbalance that needs to be treated by medication prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet’s depression is caused by the loss of a companion or loved one, the best treatment would be to offer additional attention and care, engage in play activities, offer food enrichment toys, invite their favorite friends over, and hide food in favorite places for them to find throughout the day.

“It is not recommended to give attention or offer food treats during episodes of howling or vocalizing as this might encourage the bad behavior” said Crist. “Other activities can be a ride in the car, going to doggy daycare instead of staying at home alone, or hiring a pet sitter to stay during the day. Most often the pet will have experienced some physical changes such as lethargy and appetite loss, drinking less water and sometimes constipation. These behavior changes caused by depression will need to be examined by your veterinarian.”

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