Do you know what dog depression is?
Dogs are emotional beings just like us humans. And unfortunately, depression can affect them too.
Do you sometimes come across your dog sad and downcast? If so, pay attention, because these signs can represent more than a passing sadness. They can signal that your dog is suffering from dog depression.
In this post we will talk about some factors that can cause dog depression and how to recognize this problem. Check it out below!
Factors that can cause Dog Depression
There are several factors that can destabilize your pet emotionally, and potentially lead to depression. These factors include:
- The age of the dog – Elderly dogs can develop depression because they have less energy. They need to be stimulated appropriately for their age, otherwise they get depressed.
- The death of a loved one
- The absence of owners due to travel or commitments
- Lots of time alone
- A new pet can create stress and anxiety for your dog by having to share their space with another dog
- The arrival of a baby as a new member of the family, generating a total change in your dog’s routine
- Mistreatment
- Punishment from improper training
- Lack of stimulation – whether in lack of physical exercise or lack of affection and bonding
How to recognize Dog Depression?
There are several ways to recognize when your pet is entering a depressed state, or is already suffering from depression. Some signs of depression include:
- Lack of appetite.
- No energy, total discouragement.
- Refuses to play or to be pet.
- Isolation, just wanting to lie down.
- Weight loss.
- Aggressiveness.
Get in touch with a professional
One of the first steps to treating a dog’s depression is to take them to a veterinarian. This professional will order numerous tests to further investigate your dog’s case. If you live in Astoria, check out our list of vets in the area.
There are some steps that you can take to improve your dog’s condition during treatment. Some of these steps include: increasing time with the owner, offering daily walks or runs so that your dog can expend energy, or offering new toys.
Have in mind that only a veterinarian can give the right diagnosis and suggest the best ways to reverse this situation. In extreme cases, it may be necessary to use medication.
A dog needs to be stimulated and treated with affection so that he can remain both physically and mentally healthy.
Daily Walks prevent Dog Depression
One of the best ways to avoid dog depression is to provide your pup with daily walks. Walking helps your dog to burn off energy, socialize with other dogs, learn new behaviors, and have fun.
During exercise, the dog’s body produces a series of hormones and neurotransmitters, such as endorphins, which contribute to the feeling of well-being.
Exercise provides physical and mental well-being for our dogs, just like it does for us!
Read more: 5 Ways Your Dog Benefits From Daily Walks
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram.
