Dog depression symptoms: 8 tell-tale signs

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Dog Depression

Dog depression affects a number of pets. Depression is not more prevalent in one breed over another. Any dog is susceptible to depression, but it seems dogs showing symptoms also faced a life-changing event such as a move to a new home, change of owners, new addition to the family or another pet recently died. There are eight signs to help you identify if dog depression is a factor. Changes to Eating Habits When dog depression hits, one of the first things to change is a dog`s eating habits. A dog might start eating excessively, wolfing down a meal while still acting hungry. Other depressed dogs stop eating. They will nibble at their food and walk away without having finished a meal. Low Energy The energy level in a dog suffering from depression also changes. The dog lies around sleeping all day. If you try to engage the dog, he/she acts listless and shows no enthusiasm. Becoming Withdrawn A depressed dog prefers to be alone. He or she will go into a quiet room to avoid you. The dog might hide under a bed or behind a sofa. When you call him/her out, they ignore you, often failing to even lift the head in response. Severe Weight Loss Linked to the change in eating habits, dog depression cases usually find the dog losing a good deal of weight. Weight loss in dogs is troublesome, so keep a close eye on your dog`s size. If more than a few pounds disappear, call your vet. Refuses Water As a dog withdraws from its owner and a normal routine, water intake is usually affected. The pet sleeps more, not playing and turning his/her nose up at food and water. Dehydration is a grave concern for dogs. If your dog is refusing water, contact your vet immediately. Dog depression affects a number of pets. Depression is not more prevalent in one breed over another. Any dog is susceptible to depression, but it seems dogs showing symptoms also faced a life-changing event such as a move to a new home, change of owners, new addition to the family or another pet recently died. There are eight signs to help you identify if dog depression is a factor. Changes to Eating Habits When dog depression hits, one of the first things to change is a dog`s eating habits. A dog might start eating excessively, quickly eating a meal while still acting hungry. Other depressed dogs stop eating. They will nibble at their food and walk away without having finished a meal. Low Energy The energy level in a dog suffering from depression also changes. The dog increases his or her daily average of hours of sleep significantly. If you try to engage the dog, he/she acts listless and shows no enthusiasm. Becoming Withdrawn A depressed dog prefers to be alone. He or she will go into a quiet room to avoid you. The dog might hide under a bed or behind a sofa. When you call him/her out, they ignore you, often failing to even lift the head in response. Severe Weight Loss Linked to the change in eating habits, dog depression cases usually find the dog losing a good deal of weight. Weight loss in dogs is troublesome, so keep a close eye on your dog`s size. If more than a few pounds disappear, call your vet. Refuses Water As a dog withdraws from its owner and a normal routine, water intake is usually affected. The pet sleeps more, not playing and turning his/her nose up at food and water. Dehydration is a grave concern for dogs. If your dog is refusing water, contact your vet immediately. Becomes Anxious and Restless Dogs dealing with depression usually show signs of anxiety too. The dog jumps at little things like a door closing because it signals your departure from the house. The dog may seem unable to find a comfortable spot. Some dogs will follow their owners around from room to room, yet not want to interact at all. Sheds Excessively Excessive shedding in cases of dog depression links to dietary changes too. When a dog stops eating, his/her body redirects any nutrients that he/she does get. Nutrients redirect from some areas of the body, usually the organs. Hair falls out because of the lack of nutrition sent to the hair follicles and skin. Acts Aggressive Finally, a dog suffering from depression may become aggressive towards his/her owner. The dog snaps, growls wanting to be alone and acts touchy if you try to engage him/her in activity.

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