Can you have a dog depression? The truth is Yes, and in this article of Animals and Pets Online we will talk about the symptoms, the causes and, of course, the treatment of depression in dogs.If we notice changes in the behavior of our partner and we feel that he is sad, he could be suffering a depression.We should always go to the vet because the signs we appreciate are unspecific, that is, they can correspond to both a depression and a physical illness.We should know that both situations are treatable.
How to detect depression in dogs?
Although the symptoms of depression in dogs may vary from one dog to another, the following are the ones that we can detect most frequently:
- Reduction of their activity.
- Reduction of interactions with other dogs and people.
- Loss of interest in the environment.
- Alterations in the Feeding , some stop eating while others eat compulsively.
- Prostration, lethargy and apathy.
- Increased sleep hours, although some dogs may sleep less.
- Moans, cries or howls without us knowing that it has originated them.
- Search for quiet places to hide.
- Decrease affectivity.
- Changes in behavior.
- Absence of game behaviors.
- Slow movements.
- Possible incontinence.
- Stereotypes , that is, repeating the same behavior in a manner compulsive, such as licking or nibbling the paws.
- Some dogs are anxious and/or aggressive.
In addition, depression is classified as endogenous and exogenous , depending on whether the cause is internal or external.Although there is talk of depression in Chihuahua, Pug, Poodle or Husky dogs, there is no genetic predisposition of these specific breeds to depression, that is, endogenous depression or with Biological base could occur in any breed or crossbreed dog.Exogenous is more common, a consequence of the environment and with various causes.
Depression in older dogs
Depressive symptomatology in elderly dogs can be related to the so-called cognitive dysfunction syndrome .It is a process of aging at the brain level that we could relate to Alzheimer's disease in humans The dog will show deterioration of his mental faculties with symptoms such as disorientation, elimination inside the home, repetitive behaviors, decreased relationship with other members of the house, etc.
This picture could also correspond to some pathologies such as kidney disease , so we must always take the dog to the veterinarian to perform the relevant tests that allow us to rule out a physical disorder.The age of the dog should not be an impediment to initiate a treatment.
If cognitive dysfunction is confirmed, we can implement measures to modify behavior, if applicable, and the environment, always according to professionals in canine behavior.Medication can also be used.
Causes of depression in dogs
There are different situations that may be behind depression in dogs, such as the following:
- Depression in dogs by separation : it is a circumstance usual in which the dog will develop depressive, disruptive and destructive behaviors when he is alone in the home.
- Depression in dogs due to the death of another dog : as well as People, dogs can experience grief after the death of a canine companion but, also, of another species, because what they feel is the loss of the link.
- Depression in dogs by moving of domicile or family: the abrupt change in your routine can have negative consequences for the dog, which will need a period of adaptation and adequate stimuli to restore attachment.This point may include the arrival of new members to the family, whether human or animals.
- Depression in dogs due to severe stress situations : conflicts at home, fights with other animals or diseases can lead to a depression that will have to be stopped depending on the trigger.
- Depression in dogs due to poor socialization : Those dogs separated early from their mothers and siblings, or those that have suffered abuse, may present behavioral problems, including depression.See the following article to know "At what age can puppies be separated from their mother?".
- Depression in female dogs by pseudogestation or false pregnancy: in non-sterilized female dogs After the zeal, a hormonal cascade may be triggered as if the dog was in a state, although there has been no fertilization.It will develop maternal instinct and changes in its behavior, including depression.On the contrary, there is no depre postpartum sion in bitches and if, after delivery, we observe our depressed dog we should consult with the veterinarian, since she could be sick.
How to treat depression in dogs?
As we have said, any sign of the aforementioned is a reason for veterinary consultation because, in the first place, it is necessary to rule out that the dog suffers from any physical pathology.discover what the trigger has been and, depending on it, implement measures to improve the mood of our dog.We will see them in the next section.
Professionals like the ethologists or veterinarians specialized in behavior can help us modify behaviors and surroundings, if applicable.In those dogs in more serious situations the veterinarian may prescribe medication.
How to cheer up a depressed dog?
Whatever the cause of our dog's depression, we can follow a series of measures to help him recover calmly :
- The most important is that we dedicate every day time to spend exclusively with the .Dogs are pack animals, family members, who need to feel integrated into the group.
- The exercise appropriate to their age, the walks, which cannot be limited to evacuation, games and, in short, different activities, help keep the dog entertained, as well as education in obedience.
- In some cases we can assess the incorporation of a new dog into the family, which can function as an element of activation for the depressed dog.Yes, this is a decision that cannot be taken lightly, so we recommend consulting it with a professional, such as an ethologist or veterinarian, since remember that in some situations the arrival of a new member can worsen the state of depression.
- Do not leave the dog alone for many hours .
- Avoid stressful situations that may aggravate or perpetuate the picture.
- Follow adaptation guidelines, according to professional advice.
- Although they have not demonstrated more than a placebo effect, Bach flowers or pheromone products can be used.
- Finally, pseudo-management in female dogs is controlled with sterilization.
This article is merely informative, in Animals and Pets Online we have no power to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any type of diagnosis.We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian in the event that he presents any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Depression in dogs-Symptoms, causes and treatment , we recommend that You enter our section on Mental Problems.
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