A sudden decrease or increase in your dog's appetite might signal depression. If your dog isn't eating as much as usual or is overeating, it's worth a closer look at their emotional state.
Dogs love playtime and walks, but a depressed dog may lose interest in their favorite activities. If your pup isn't excited about fetching a ball or going for a walk, they might be feeling down.
While dogs sleep a lot, an unusual increase in sleep could indicate depression. If your dog seems more lethargic and sleeps more than usual, they might be experiencing emotional distress.
Depressed dogs often withdraw from social interactions. If your dog is hiding more, avoiding family members, or not greeting you as enthusiastically, this could be a sign of depression.
Noticeable changes in behavior, like aggression or becoming unusually timid, can be a sign of depression. If your dog's personality shifts significantly, it's important to pay attention.
Dogs may excessively lick or chew themselves as a way to cope with depression. If your dog is obsessively grooming or biting their paws, this could be a sign they are feeling stressed or down.
A depressed dog may seem tired and lack energy. If your usually active dog appears sluggish and uninterested in exercise, it might be a sign they're feeling depressed.
If your dog is whining or howling more than usual, it could be a sign of distress. Increased vocalization might be your dog's way of expressing their discomfort or sadness.
Depression can affect a dog's bathroom habits. If your house-trained dog starts having accidents inside or if there's a noticeable change in their bathroom routine, depression might be the cause.