Is my dog depressed?

Is my dog depressed at home?

This is a great question and one we hear often. Your dog spends the day passed out on the couch, sunning, or quietly chewing a bone. For any human, it would likely be a sign of depression or boredom. However, emotional distress manifests differently in dogs. Generally, a sleeping dog is a happy dog. When dogs aren’t getting enough daily activity, they can become hyperactive and destructive. They may be excessively needy or clingy or refuse to eat. Before you make any big changes, talk to your vet to rule out any health related causes. Once you’ve done this, give us a call.

What can I do to help?

For most dogs, a few short walks with one longer outing will suffice for the day. Depending on breed, more intense exercise may be required. Shepherd breeds require a lot of exercise and often do well with breed specific games and toys. A large herding ball can work wonders for an anxious German Shepherd. A Bully breed may only need a few minutes of tug and some wrestling to be happy for the day. Pointers love watching birds and retrievers love having a toy in their mouth. Some breeds are not highly social and therefore will not do well in a pack setting. 

For some, socialization and extra exercise won’t be the answer, but it’s usually a good place to start. If you’ve already spoken to your vet and tried group activities, it may be time to look for a trainer who specializes in behavior modification. In the meantime, don’t be afraid to do some crate training at home. This training builds your relationship, gives your dog some mental work, provides a safe, calm space for your dog, and keeps your dog (and your furniture) safe from harm.