Has your playful, tail-wagging best friend suddenly turned quiet, clingy or oddly tired?
Maybe she’s not eating the way she used to. Maybe she’s sleeping more. Maybe she’s just… not her.
And now you’re wondering the question every dog parent asks at least once:
“Is my dog depressed?”
Let’s break down what dog “depression” really looks like — and what you can do to help her feel like herself again.
Can Dogs Really Get Depressed?
Yes… but not in the same way humans do.
Dogs can absolutely show behaviors that look like depression, but those changes are usually symptoms of something else — most commonly:
- A medical issue
- Pain or discomfort
- Low energy due to weight gain
- Age-related changes
Because so many health problems can mimic depression, your first step should always be a vet appointment if you notice sudden behavior changes.
Emotional Reasons Dogs May Seem Depressed
If your vet rules out a medical cause, then it’s time to look at emotional triggers.
Dogs can grieve and react deeply to change. Big shifts in their world can lead to a noticeable drop in mood, including:
- A pet or human leaving the home
- The loss of a furry sibling
- A big move or household change
- A favorite person spending less time at home
Think back: Has anything in her routine or environment changed recently? Even small disruptions can throw some dogs off.
Still — always loop your vet into the conversation. Emotional changes should only be considered after medical causes are ruled out.
Common Signs Your Dog May Be Feeling Down
A “depressed” dog may show several of these:
- Acting withdrawn or unusually quiet
- Eating less or refusing food
- Sleeping much more than usual
- Less energy or enthusiasm
- Losing interest in toys, walks or activities she normally loves
These signs are not proof of depression — just signals that something is off and deserves attention.
Should You Give Your Dog Antidepressants?
For true depression? Usually, no.
Antidepressants are used in dogs, but not typically for depression. Vets more commonly prescribe SSRIs (like Prozac) for:
- Separation anxiety
- OCD-type behaviors
- Generalized anxiety
- Certain types of aggression
Behavioral medicine is complex, so if you think your dog needs medication or deeper help, ask your vet for a referral to a veterinary behaviorist.
So… What Should You Do If Your Dog Seems Depressed?
- Start with a vet visit
Rule out pain, illness or other medical conditions first. - Add enrichment and stimulation
If she gets a clean bill of health, your vet may suggest increasing:- Playtime
- Exercise
- Mental stimulation (like puzzle toys or interactive feeders)
- Look for life changes that may have affected her
And try to restore routine, comfort and predictability.
With patience, attention and a bit of extra love, most dogs bounce back beautifully.
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