Lisa O
Just like people, dogs can sometimes feel sad. But unlike us, they can’t tell us when they’re feeling blue as easily. Dogs might feel down for many reasons, like moving to a new place or losing someone they love. Sometimes, even boredom can make them feel low, and they can get seriously depressed. But don’t worry. There are ways to tell if your dog is feeling sad – we just need to know what to look for. Here are some signs of an unhappy dog!
Appetite Changes
Experiencing a lack of interest in food might mean your furry friend isn’t feeling their best. On the flip side, some dogs turn to food for comfort when they’re unhappy. Any change can give us clues about their mood, whether they’re eating more or less. Keep an eye out for shifts in eating habits because they could also lead to changes in weight. Your pet might be packing or shedding a few pounds when depressed.
Retreat and Hide
When a pup isn’t feeling their best, they might pull a disappearing act around the house, seeking a bit of solace. If there’s no obvious reason for this hide-and-seek game, like fireworks, it could be their way of saying, “Hey, I’m not feeling great.” And here’s another cue – they might try to shrink themselves down by cowering. It’s their way of coping with a little emotional slump.
Sleep Disruptions
According to studies, dogs tend to sleep more than humans, clocking in around 12 hours a day on average. If you suddenly see your furry friend sleeping more or struggling with insomnia, it could signal that they’re not their usual cheerful selves. Whether they’re catching extra sleep or having trouble catching any at all, these sleep changes show that your pet is unhappy or depressed.
Playtime Aversion
Dogs experiencing depression may show a reluctance to go for walks. They might not display the usual excitement – like jumping or running to the door – when you grab their leash, or they may not respond when encouraged to take a walk, as highlighted by experts. While it’s normal for dogs to occasionally lack interest in play, if this behavior continues for a very long period, we suggest you investigate further.
Paw Obsession
When a dog feels down, they might lick their feet. Why? For many dogs, this behavior serves as a soothing mechanism. Continuous licking and grooming shows that your dog is trying to provide themselves comfort. If your furry friend has been excessively self-grooming for long, it could mean underlying issues. Doing it again and again means it has become a habit.
Social Detachment
Dogs are real fans of people, especially in breeds like golden retrievers or Labradors, known for their outgoing and friendly nature. But according to experts, when a pup is feeling low, they might not show the same enthusiasm for life, even around their favorite humans. And it’s not just people—dogs also lose interest in playing with their furry pals when they’re feeling down. So keep an eye on how your dog interacts with others.
Aggressive Outbursts
Did you know that a dog’s aggression might actually stem from feelings of depression? It’s true! If your normally chill and collected pup suddenly starts barking, lunging, snapping, or growling at everything in sight, it could be a sign that they’re feeling down. And when they’re in that depressed state, they might stay stuck in that angry mood for a while.
Energy Drain
If you notice your furry friend lounging around more and not being as keen on hanging out with the household, it might be more than their age. A sudden change or excessive sleeping could signal a case of the doggy blues. So what can you do? Shake things up a bit by playing with their favorite toy or going for a walk – a breath of fresh air does wonders for lifting their spirits!
Restless Pacing
Just like us, dogs can experience anxiety alongside depression. If you notice your furry friend pacing around the house, it could be a sign they’re feeling bored and down. Giving them more outdoor time might be the pick-me-up they need. And if you’re away from home all day, consider bringing in a dog walker to give your pup the exercise and TLC they deserve!
Destructive Behavior
You might notice your pup getting a bit too rough with their toys or causing a ruckus around the house—kind of like a furry wrecking ball. But before you blame it on a burst of energy, consider this: it could actually be a sign that they’re feeling a bit blue. Try boosting their exercise routine or introducing some mind-boggling activities to uplift their mood and put an end to those destructive shenanigans.