If you talk to one person, you’ll find out that dogs don’t have emotions. If you talk to someone else, you’ll find out that dogs most undoubtedly do have emotions. The topic of pets having feelings has been long debated. You may be wondering can dogs get depressed. It is our belief that yes, there is such a thing as a depressed dog. If your dog seems to be wearing its heart on its proverbial sleeve, ask yourself why.
How to Tell if a Dog is Depressed
Has There Been a Change in the Family? We love dogs because they love us. Dogs become incredibly bonded to their families. When asking can dogs get depressed, ask yourself if there has been a recent change in the family. Maybe a child has left for college. Maybe a separation or divorce has occurred. Perhaps a family member has been deployed. No matter the cause of the change in family dynamic, such a change can cause depression in dogs. Give your pet time to adjust to the new change. If your dog does not come around in a couple of weeks’ time, a trip to the veterinarian may be in order.
Has Another Pet Passed Away? Dogs are pack animals. If you have more than one dog in the home and one dies, you may soon have a depressed dog on your hands. Don’t rush out and buy or rescue a new dog for the family. Instead, spend some extra time with the remaining pet. Depression in dogs cannot be loved away, but extra attention or new activities can ease the ache. Teach your dog a new trick, find a new park to walk through, or enroll your dog in a fun new sport. Any of these things can take your dog’s mind off of its loss.
Is Your Pet Ill? Because animals are hard-wired not to show outward signs of pain, one of the first things that you may notice in an ill pet is a change in behavior. Whether your dog is young or old, an illness can cause depression. If you have a depressed dog and can’t think of a reason why, a trip to the veterinarian may be in order.
Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your dog to discover illness. If nothing is found during the physical exam, your veterinarian may request blood tests or X-rays. Follow your vet’s advice; he has experience in dog behavior and illness.
Can dogs get depressed?
We believe that they can. There are many causes for an otherwise happy-go-lucky to dog to suddenly feel down in the dumps. If you believe that you have a depressed dog in your household, ask yourself what the cause could be. If you can’t determine a cause, make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian for a thorough exam.
Depression in dogs is not uncommon. The good news is that you can help your dog through its rough patch. With proper attention and guidance from your veterinarian, you can help your dog regain its joy for life. Is your dog vomiting, read here what to do.
