Identifying a Melancholic Mood in Your Canine Companion: Expert Insights by Catherine Barnette, DVM, Reviewed by Emily Oliver, CVT on 03/28/2025 and Published on 03/11/2020.
Hey there! Dogs, just like us, can sometimes get the blues due to changes in their lives or health. And when our pups start acting different, it's natural to be concerned. Dr. Wailani Sung, DVM, tells us that dogs can indeed experience depression – especially after stressful or traumatic events in their lives, or in relation to an anxiety disorder worsening.
Spotting the Signs
Depression in dogs isn't usually a critical situation, but the signs are hard to miss. When your fur buddy seems less interested in the usual things that excite them, it could be due to depression. Here are some behaviors to watch for:
- Decreased activity levels: If your pup typically taps dance at the sight of the leash, but now needs encouragement to go for a walk, that's a red flag. Or maybe they used to love fetch, but now ignore toys when they're thrown.
- Altered sleep patterns: Suddenly sleeping more or less than usual can be a symptom of depression. Pay attention to your pet's "wake windows" and note any changes.
- Changes in appetite: Dogs may suddenly lose interest in meals, sleep through their meal times, or eat smaller portions and come back for more later. They might also lose interest in their favorite treats or require extra goodies to eat their meals.
Remember, these changes could also indicate an underlying illness, so it's essential to consult a vet before attributing them to depression.
Understanding the Causes
The reasons behind your pup's sadness could be numerous, but some common causes include:
- The loss of someone close: Pets grieve too, and they may experience sadness after losing a family member, whether human or animal.
- A new baby in the house: While the arrival of a new baby can be a joyous occasion, it can also confuse and scatter your dog, affecting their overall state of mind.
- Moving to a new home: Moving can cause stress and trigger behavioral changes in your pup.
Dealing with Depression in Dogs
If you suspect your dog is suffering from depression, start by documenting your pet's daily activities and share this information with your vet. Introduce new activities and structured routines to see if these have a positive impact on their mood. If necessary, consult a professional about medications to treat depression in dogs.
Remember, it's always a good idea to rule out any underlying medical conditions before considering depression as the cause of your dog's unusual behavior. Conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and inflammation may cause similar symptoms.
If you've noticed changes in your dog's behavior, take action. Your pup deserves happiness, and you're their best ally in achieving it!
A concerned pet owner might observe changes in their dog's behavior, such as decreased interest in usual activities or alterations in sleep patterns, which could indicate mental health issues like depression, just as humans can experience. It's crucial to consider that these symptoms may also be signs of an underlying health problem, so consulting a vet is essential before jumping to conclusions about depression.
