Signs That Your Dog Is Depressed

If there is something that every dog owner wants, it is to make sure that their dog is genuinely happy, healthy, and well. But like humans, dogs have different emotions too. They could be happy, excited, playful, and they could also feel sad, and even depressed. Yes, that is right. Much like humans your pooch could also feel sad and lonely.
We don’t know if this comes to you as shocking information or you are already aware of this fact but whichever is the case it is important to know the signs that your dog is experiencing dog depression. In this way when that happens you will not be blind and clueless with the signs and you could take the necessary actions, response, and attention that your dog needs. 


How do you know if your dog is depressed? 
What are the signs that could indicate dog depression?


Change in appetite
A depressed dog may experience a change in appetite. He may lose his interest or usual gusto when seeing food and eating. But losing appetite is not the only change in eating pattern that may be a sign of depression, a depressed dog may also eat a lot like they are finding comfort or solace in food. This change depends on the dog so it is important to observe sudden changes. 


Paw licking
A depressed dog will often excessively lick or chew their paw. But it is important to know that incessant licking is not always because of dog depression or psychological reasons because a physiological reason could also be the reason behind it.


Sleeping more often
Is your dog sleeping more? Does he still sleep even in the times that he is usually awake? A dog that all of a sudden sleeps more than the usual may be depressed. 


Trouble in sleeping well
Change in the sleeping pattern might be the right word here. A dog that may be experiencing dog depression does not only sleep more.  Trouble sleeping is also an indication that the dog may be depressed. 


Avoidance
If there is one thing we are sure about dogs it is that they are highly social. They would rather be with a company than alone and as a dog owner, we bet you already know that. So when your dog suddenly retreats and wants to hide and avoid interactions, your dog might be experiencing dog depression. Or, if that is not the case still do not take it for granted because a suddenly avoidant dog is still not a good sign. 

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Dogs can feel depressed and as a dog owner, it is important to know and understand the signs that they are showing when they are in depression. Is there any reason for your dog to be extremely sad? Even if the answer is no and you observed the signs above it is important to not be negligent and inattentive about it. Even if it is not dog depression remember that there are still reasons behind those signs and it could be a physical or medical issue so it is best they are checked by a vet.

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