In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

Can dogs be depressed? According to Veterinarians.org, researchers in the 1980s found that canines can go through behavioral changes for various reasons, prompting them to experience extreme emotions, just like their human counterparts, People recently reported. Information shared on Veterinarians.org noted that some of the main signs of depression in dogs include “reduced activity levels and a desire to play,” plus “clinginess or social withdrawal” and “a loss or change in appetite.” “Excessive licking that brings comfort” and “uncharacteristic whining or howling” are other signs of canine depression, according to the organization. A big cause of depression in dogs, the organization noted, can be from experiencing a loss, which can range from that of a human companion or another pet living in the same home. Dogs can also be affected by environmental changes, such as the addition of a new pet or baby, or from something such as a change in scenery from moving, per Veterinarians.org. Dog trainers can help protect against depression in dogs by helping rid a pet of “established and unwanted behaviors through conditioning or positive reinforcement.” Veterinarians will sometimes medicate dogs with prescription drugs, similar to ones that humans take for depression, including Zoloft and Xanax. When prescribed, these medications may take up to four to six weeks to kick in and show effective changes, according to Veterinarians.org.