Dogs are often used as emotional support animals for people with mental illnesses. They are considered a better option than other pets because they can provide more emotional support. This is because dogs have a close bond with humans, and they can sense when a human feels down.
However, dogs are also susceptible to depression and anxiety. This is because their moods are affected by their environment, which includes the people around them and events in their lives. Discover what causes canine depression and how to prevent it.
First: What Is Dog Depression?
Depression is a mental illness that can affect anyone. What many people don’t know is that depression can also affect dogs. Some symptoms of canine depression are similar to those in humans, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and social withdrawal. But there are key differences between how humans and dogs experience this illness.
For example, humans have a more complex range of emotions that dogs can’t express, like guilt or regret. Dogs also don’t have as many cognitive skills as humans do, making it harder for them to recognize their emotions or identify what’s wrong with themselves. They don’t necessarily have the means to communicate their feelings to their humans, which means it’s up to the owner to determine if something is wrong with their pet.
What Are the Symptoms of Dog Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder common in both people and animals; some of its main characteristics include sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness.
Symptoms of depression in dogs may include:
- Lethargy
- Withdrawal from social interaction
- Loss of appetite
- Sleep problems
- Changes in activity levels
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Excessive grooming behaviors (for example, excessive licking)
What Causes Canine Depression?
Any significant change in a dog’s life could result in them experiencing depressive episodes. Dogs need time to adjust when they move from one place to another or when there’s a change in their routine, such as going back home after being at daycare all day.
The death of a companion animal can be very traumatic for a dog. Companion animals are not just pets; they are an important part of the family, and losing one can be traumatic for everyone. There are many ways that dogs can react to the loss of a companion animal, such as sadness, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Some dogs may even experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Dogs are often very attached to their owners and may show separation anxiety when they’re not around. Losing an owner can be especially devastating for dogs who have been raised with them since they were puppies. The loss can lead to behavioral issues, such as excessive barking, not wanting to go outside, and even aggression.
Other Causes of Canine Depression
It’s not just the loss of a companion that can trigger depressive episodes in a dog; several other triggers can also affect them negatively.
Canine boredom is among the most common contributors to dog depression. It’s a feeling that dogs can’t clearly express. They show signs of depression and anxiety when bored, which means we must find ways to provide an enriching and entertaining environment throughout the day.
Dogs may also feel depressed when they are in pain. This is because of the release of certain chemicals in their brain. The release of these chemicals is a natural response to pain and has a significant role in making them feel depressed. Dogs are skilled at hiding their pain, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the signs that they are sick or injured. These include lethargy, change in appetite, change in behavior, aggression, or defensiveness.
If your dog becomes depressed during the winter months, it could be due to seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This is a type of depression that can affect dogs––typically triggered by long periods of cold weather, shorter days, and a lack of sunlight.
How Can You Treat Dog Depression?
Dog depression is a widespread occurrence in our canine friends. Knowing the treatments available for dog depression is essential to help your pup feel better.
Exercise is a great place to start because it releases endorphins in both you and your pup, which will make both of you feel better. You can also try making dietary changes; these include adding omega 3s, vitamin C, and fatty acids to their diet to improve their mood.
Doggy daycare is one of the most popular and effective treatments for dog depression because it allows your canine to socialize with other dogs while away from home. Meanwhile, aromatherapy involves using essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, or chamomile to reduce your pet’s anxiety and stress levels. We know that our dogs can feel emotions, and we should take the time to ensure they are happy. Spending time with them, playing games, and providing enrichment can inspire joy.
