Is My Dog Depressed? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment - GoodRx (2024)

If your pup seems to have the blues, it could be depression. Many dogs get depressed, just like people do. Often, they become withdrawn, stop eating, and lose interest in things they once enjoyed. Thankfully, there are things you can do to help a depressed dog.

Below, we’ll look at common symptoms, causes, and treatments for canine depression.

Can dogs get depressed?

Yes, dogs can have depression. Most of us know someone who has experienced major depression, which can cause a loss of interest in favorite activities and struggle to cope with daily life. But dogs get depressed as well. Some research suggests that nearly 75% of dogs may show symptoms of anxiety or depression at some point.

What are symptoms of depression in dogs?

There’s not a lot of research in the area of dog depression symptoms. But from what we know, dogs show symptoms that are similar to those experienced by humans with depression.

The most common signs of depression in dogs include:

• Loss of appetite

• Lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed, such as going for a walk or playing

• Destructive behavior, such as chewing things they shouldn’t

• Clingy or needy behavior

• Withdrawn and distant behavior

• Increased irritability

• More frequent accidents

• Changes in sleep patterns

What causes depression in dogs?

While there are a variety of triggers for depression, it is frequently caused by a major change in a dog’s life.

Some of the top causes of canine depression include:

• Loss of an owner

• Loss of a canine companion

• Environmental changes such as moving, rehoming, or the addition of a new baby or pet

• Major schedule changes like an owner starting a new work schedule

• Lack of physical or mental stimulation

• Trauma from an injury, disease, or abuse

• Physical pain

• Being tied out on a chain

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• Being socially isolated for long periods

• Boredom

Does human depression affect dogs?

Dogs have been bred to be empathic and responsive to human moods. For example, one study found that dogs show the same stress levels as their owners. As a result, some dogs may become depressed if their owner shows signs of depression.

What are the best treatments for depression in dogs?

The best treatment for your dog’s depression depends on the cause. If your dog is in pain, their depression symptoms will likely improve once the pain is treated. Similarly, a dog whose depression stems from abuse or isolation will improve once they are socialized and treated with love.

These enrichment activities can also help lift the mood of your depressed pup:

• More frequent walks

• Food games using kibble-dispensing treats

• More social interaction

• Activities that involve sensory stimulation, such as listening to music, playing games that require sniffing out hidden treats, and tactile stimulation

• More playtime

• Rewards for positive behaviors, whether it be playing, eating, or showing interest in activities

• Training, which can increase mental stimulation

If your pup’s depression persists, consult your veterinarian or a dog behaviorist to determine if there is another cause of your dog’s symptoms.

Treating dog depression with medication

Depending on your dog’s symptoms and the severity of their depression, your vet may prescribe them antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication. Common medications prescribed for this purpose include:

• Fluoxetine (Prozac)

• Paroxetine (Paxil)

• Trazodone

• Clomipramine (Anafranil)

• Amitriptyline (Elavil)

• Diazepam (Valium)

• Alprazolam (Xanax)

Make sure to get a behavioral and physical health assessment and consult with your bet before giving medication to your dog. And do not give them human medication. The dosages are very different for people and dogs, and some human medications are toxic to dogs.

How can you prevent your dog from getting depressed?

You can’t avoid everything that may cause your dog distress. But there are things you can do to take care of their mental health and help prevent depression.

Exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to reducing your dog’s anxiety and stress, for example. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise each day, whether it be walks, time in the backyard, or playtime. Another tip: Rather than walking them up and down the same block each day, take them to see and smell new places. Mental stimulation — such as exploring new places, training, or using puzzle feeders — helps prevent boredom and depression.

When you have to leave your dog home alone, leave “busy toys” to keep them distracted. You can also leave a piece of your clothing, such as a sweatshirt, with your pup. An item that has your scent can calm and reassure your dog.

If your dog enjoys being with other dogs, consider taking them to a quality doggy day care when you have to be away from home. Visits to the dog park can be another way to give your pup social time to prevent depression.