Dogs can be affected by depression in the same way as people. The symptoms of depression in dogs can vary so it's important that owners be familiar with their dog's typical behavior. By knowing some common dog depression signs, owners can spot potential problems and seek the help of a veterinarian. Although it is difficult to diagnose, canine depression can be treated.
Causes of Dog Depression
Often, dogs can become depressed as a result of a traumatic event or a change in surroundings. For example, the death of a family member or other pet can trigger depression. A change in routine, such as moving to a new home or living with a new family can cause depression in dogs. Constantly being alone, without human or animal companionship can also make a dog depressed. Dogs that have suffered past traumatic experience, such as abuse or neglect, are subject to depression.
Medical conditions can also create depression in dogs. Hyperthyroidism is one such condition. Any disease that lowers the dog's metabolic activity can potentially cause depression.
Symptoms of Dog Depression
Dogs that are depressed can exhibit a wide variety of symptoms but there are some common signs. Dogs with depression are often lethargic and show little interest in playing or doing other activities they previously enjoyed. Digestive symptoms such as loss of appetite and constipation are also connected to depression. Other behaviors range from subtle to strange. Dogs with depression sometimes act out of touch by wandering aimlessly around the house or sniffing at walls.
Diagnosing Dog Depression
The first step toward diagnosing depression in dogs usually comes from the owner. If depression-like symptoms are noted, the dog's owner should also consider the animal's past history and any recent changes in routine or surroundings. The presence of symptoms combined with past trauma or a change in surrounding is cause for concern.
Upon noticing any strange symptoms, the owner should make an appointment with a veterinarian. Even with extensive testing, canine depression is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms of depression are associated with many other medical disorders so the diagnosis of depression is often a process of elimination. If other diseases are ruled out, the veterinarian may recommend treating the dog for depression to see if symptoms improve.
Treating Dog Depression
Fortunately, there are medication available to treat dogs with depression. Prozac is one treatment that has proven effective. There are also changes in routine and lifestyle that can help treat the symptoms of depression in dogs. Owners should make sure dogs with depression get plenty of exercise and engage in a variety of activities. For example, play fetch one day and take a long walk the next.
Angie Gentry - Angie Gentry is the publisher and editor of Cowgirl Living, online lifestyle magazine for the Western woman. As the owner of Flying A ...
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