Introduction
The relationship between humans and dogs has endured for thousands of years. Dogs have earned the title of “man’s best friend” due to their loyalty, companionship and ability to reduce stress. But dogs have feelings too. When a beloved owner suffers from depression, can dogs actually become depressed as well?
Recent research suggests that the strong emotional bond between humans and dogs means they often reflect each other’s moods and mental states. Just as dogs can sense when we are happy, they may also mirror our sadness and anxieties. Some experts believe dogs can develop their own forms of depression and withdrawal when their owners have mental health issues.
In this guide, we’ll explore the deep connection between owners and dogs. We’ll discuss how to recognize the signs of depression in canine companions, along with tips to improve their wellbeing. With extra love and care, owners and dogs can lift each other’s spirits and promote healthier, happier lives.
Defining Depression in Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can experience depression, which is characterized by a persistent low mood, lack of interest in usual activities, changes in behavior, and other symptoms. In dogs, depression may be defined as a mental state of sadness, withdrawal, and lethargy that lasts for at least 2 weeks (WebMD).
Some of the most common symptoms and signs of depression in dogs include:
- Loss of interest in food, treats, toys, or activities they once enjoyed
- Sleeping more than normal or difficulty sleeping
- Appearing sad with tail and head held low
- Loss of energy, less active or playful
- Withdrawal from human family members or isolation
- Excessive dependence on human family members
Other potential symptoms include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, aggression, hiding, trembling, and lack of response to stimuli that would normally bring excitement (AKC). If a dog is displaying several of these symptoms consistently for 2 weeks or more, it may indicate they are suffering from depression.
Some medical conditions can also cause symptoms of depression in dogs, so it’s important to have a veterinarian examine your dog to rule out any underlying illness. But in many cases, the depression itself requires treatment even if other medical issues are not present.
The Human-Animal Bond
There is a strong emotional connection and bond that develops between dogs and their human caregivers. According to research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, when we share our lives with pets like dogs, we experience physical and mental health benefits. The bond between humans and dogs has been shown to decrease blood pressure, release calming hormones, and relieve anxiety and depression. Dogs pick up on our energy and emotions, so when a dog owner is depressed, the dog may mirror that.
Some research indicates dogs demonstrate empathetic behaviors towards humans. They seem to be able to understand human emotions and respond appropriately to them. This emotional contagion allows dogs to literally “feel” their human’s pain or distress. For example, dogs can detect changes in human physiological states and may adjust their behavior when their owner is depressed or anxious.
Do Dogs Mirror Our Emotions?
There is evidence that dogs have the ability to pick up on human emotions. Dogs can recognize emotions in people’s facial expressions, and studies show they can distinguish between happy and angry faces (https://www.rspca.org.uk/-/blog_how_dogs_know_what_were_feeling). Dogs also rely heavily on body language and vocal cues to understand how their owners are feeling.
Research has found that dogs will approach people who are smiling and happy, but avoid those who are frowning or angry (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/premium/article/yes-dogs-can-catch-their-owners-emotions). Another study showed that dogs can mirror the stress and anxiety levels of their owners. When owners were stressed, their dogs also showed significantly higher stress signals (https://www.androscogginanimalhospital.com/blog/how-does-my-dog-know-what-im-feeling/).
This evidence indicates dogs have evolved an innate ability to perceive human emotions. By picking up on cues like facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and scent, dogs aim to mirror the emotional states of their human companions.
Depression in Dogs with Depressed Owners
Research shows an interesting connection between depression in dogs and their human owners. According to a 2021 study published in PLoS One, dogs with depressed owners show more signs of lethargy, attention-seeking behavior, and aggression compared to dogs with non-depressed owners (Chakma, 2021). The research indicates that the mental health of dog owners can directly impact the mood and behavior of their pets.
This is likely due to the deep human-animal bond that develops between dogs and their caregivers. Dogs are highly sensitive and attuned to human emotions and energy levels. When an owner is experiencing chronic depression, the dog may mirror some of their low mood, lack of motivation, and sadness. This empathetic response in dogs could contribute to symptoms of canine depression.
Additionally, changes in routine and lifestyle that often accompany depression in humans can also negatively affect a dog’s mood. Less exercise, playtime, and affection from the owner means the dog’s needs are no longer being met. This lack of stimulation and bonding opportunities can cause dogs to appear withdrawn, disinterested, and lethargic – common signs of canine depression.
The good news is that treatment for depression in dogs often involves lifestyle changes that benefit both pet and owner. With medication, training, routine care, and increased bonding opportunities, dogs and humans can overcome depressive symptoms together.
Reasons Dogs May Become Depressed
There are several potential triggers that can lead to depression in dogs. Some of the most common causes include:
Loss of Owner
One of the most common reasons dogs become depressed is due to the loss of their owner. Dogs form strong bonds with their human companions, so if an owner dies or goes away for an extended time, the dog may grieve the loss and show signs of depression (source). The sudden lack of companionship and disruption to their daily routine can be very difficult for dogs.
Change in Routine
Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. If there are major changes in a dog’s daily schedule or environment, such as a move to a new home, addition of a new pet, or long periods of separation from their owner, they may have trouble adjusting and become depressed. The loss of predictability and familiarity is challenging for them (source).
Medical Issues
Sometimes depression in dogs can be caused by an underlying medical condition. Issues like hypothyroidism, chronic pain, or cognitive dysfunction syndrome can lead to behavioral changes that mimic depression. Consulting a vet to rule out health problems is important before addressing behavioral causes of depression (source).
Warning Signs of Depression in Dogs
There are some common behavioral changes in dogs that may indicate depression. These signs often involve changes in your dog’s typical appetite, energy, and behavior. According to the AKC, some signs your dog may be depressed include:
– Lack of interest in food or treats they once loved (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-to-know-if-your-dog-is-depressed/)
– Significant changes in weight due to increased or decreased appetite
– Low energy and excessive sleep
– Loss of interest in toys, walks, or activities they used to enjoy
– Withdrawing from social interactions
– Changes in bathroom habits
– Destructive chewing or other repetitive behaviors
According to GoodRx, other potential signs of depression may include aggression, hiding, pacing, and whining or barking excessively (https://www.goodrx.com/pet-health/dog/dog-depression-signs). If your dog is displaying persistent changes in behavior or appetite, it’s a good idea to consult your vet to rule out potential medical issues. Ongoing lethargy, disinterest, or withdrawal are red flags that your dog may be experiencing depression.
Treatment Options
There are a few different treatment options for dogs showing signs of depression. These treatments typically focus on medication, behavioral training, and making changes to the dog’s home environment.
Antidepressant medications may be prescribed by a veterinarian to help balance a dog’s brain chemistry. Some common medications used include fluoxetine and clomipramine. It’s important to follow dosing instructions carefully and be patient, as it can take 4-6 weeks for the medication to take full effect. Medication alone often isn’t enough, so it’s recommended to combine it with other treatments.
Working with an animal behaviorist or trainer can help depressed dogs learn coping mechanisms and new behaviors. Obedience training, socialization classes, scent work, and agility training provide mental stimulation. Trainers can identify problematic behaviors contributing to the dog’s depression and come up with an individualized training plan. Consistency with the training is key.
Making adjustments to the dog’s daily routine and environment can also lift their mood. Giving them enrichment through interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and chews provides mental and physical stimulation. Increasing exercise with daily walks or play time releases feel-good endorphins. Maintaining a predictable schedule helps anxious dogs feel secure. Ensuring their basic needs are met such as proper nutrition, shelter, water, and affection helps dogs feel comfortable and content.
A combination approach of medication, training, and environmental changes provides the most comprehensive treatment plan for depression in dogs. Consulting with a vet and specialists ensures the proper care is given based on the individual dog’s needs.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Your Dog
One of the best ways to combat depression in dogs is to make positive lifestyle changes that can lift their mood. Focusing on providing more exercise, playtime, and quality time with your dog can go a long way in improving their mental state.
Regular exercise is essential for all dogs, but especially important for depressed dogs. Taking your dog on two or more longer walks per day and playing fetch or tug-of-war will help release feel-good endorphins and relieve stress. Allow your dog to run around off-leash in a safe area as much as possible.
Increasing playtime activates your dog mentally and physically. Play interactive games like hide-and-seek with treats and toys. Engage your dog’s natural hunting instincts by having them search for hidden kibble around the house. Purchase new squeaky toys and puzzle toys to keep them entertained and challenged.
Spend more focused one-on-one time with your dog through grooming, training, or cuddling. Take your dog on special outings to let them experience new sights, sounds, and smells. Show your dog extra love and affection with petting, praise, and belly rubs.
With more exercise, play, and quality bonding time, you can help lift your dog’s mood and reduce depressive symptoms. Consult your veterinarian for additional lifestyle tips to prevent or alleviate depression in your canine companion.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the signs of depression in your dog persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to seek help from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Prolonged depression that is left untreated can worsen and lead to health complications in dogs.
According to the AKC, if your dog is displaying symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, anxiety, irritability, or unusual aggression for more than 2-3 weeks, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your vet (AKC). Your vet can do a full health exam to check for any underlying physical illness causing your dog’s depression.
They may recommend blood tests, urinalysis, or other diagnostics to look for medical conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or cancer which could contribute to depression. Based on the cause, your vet may prescribe medication as part of the treatment plan.
For behavioral causes of depression like grief, boredom, or anxiety, your vet may refer you to a certified animal behaviorist or trainer. These experts can assess your dog’s unique situation and suggest customized techniques to improve their mood and environment. This may involve training, environmental enrichment, or prescribing anxiety medications in extreme cases (PetMD).
The sooner you seek professional help for an ongoing depressed state in your dog, the better their chances for a full recovery. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if your pet’s mood doesn’t improve after you’ve tried your best to cheer them up at home.