Dealing With Doggie Depression: What You Should Know

Many people do not realize that just like people, dogs can experience mental health issues and struggles. However, each and every day, dogs all across the country struggle with such problems. Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in dogs, and it can be a serious health problem.

Get to know more about depression in dogs, including the signs and symptoms of depression and what you can do about it. Then you can be sure you contact your veterinarian at the first signs of trouble with your dog.

Depression in dogs can manifest itself in different ways. However, some symptoms are common among all dogs that suffer from the condition. Here are a few of those symptoms.

Sleep Changes

One of the most common signs of depression in dogs is a change in their sleep patterns. If your dog is normally quite active and energetic and they suddenly start sleeping all the time, you may have a depressed dog on your hands. While dogs naturally sleep a great deal more than people, they should have energy at some point throughout the day.

Excessive Licking

Dogs that are depressed often engage in odd behaviors to try to help themselves feel better. One of their go-to comforting techniques is paw licking. If you notice that your dog is licking their paws excessively, even to the point of losing fur or creating wounds, then your dog could be depressed.

Appetite Changes

Most dogs are enthusiastic eaters and enjoy mealtimes. However, when a dog is depressed, they may show marked changes in their appetite and desire to eat. If your dog seems less enthusiastic about eating, eats less, or refuses to eat entirely, they may be depressed.

Interest Loss

For many pet owners, the first sign that something is up with their dog is when they begin to lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. This can include getting treats, going for walks, or even showing enthusiasm when you get home from work and greet them. If this interest loss lasts more than a day or two, you should take them to the veterinarian to be checked out.

Aggression

When some dogs are depressed, they may start to be touchier and more easily angered. This mood change can lead to aggressive behaviors. If your dog is good-natured normally and becomes growly and even snaps or nips when they wouldn't have otherwise, depression may be the cause.

Depression is a tricky mental illness, whether it affects humans or dogs. Oftentimes, the exact causes may not be easy to pinpoint. However, if you have had a major life event that has affected your dog, it could have an impact on your dog's mental state.

For example, if another dog in the household recently died, your dog could be depressed because they are in mourning for their companion. Other possible causes of depression could be a change in your work schedule (a change in your dog's routine), a recent move, or the loss of another owner.

Luckily, depression in dogs can be treated if necessary. Sometimes, simply paying your dog more attention, getting them out on walks, or even taking them to a training class can help to get them back to normal. Other times, though, veterinary care is necessary.

It is important to note that the symptoms associated with depression in dogs can also be caused by other illnesses. Therefore, even if you do want to try those home remedies, a trip to the vet should happen first to rule out other illnesses.

Veterinarians can also prescribe antidepressant medications for your dog to take. These medications are generally pills that are administered once a day for a set period of time. Then you can wean your dog off the medications to see if they remain in good spirits.