Veterinarians do not really know if dogs suffer from depression the same way people do because, of course, they cannot ask them. However, in clinical practices there have been a few situations where depression can be the only explanation for certain behaviors. While it is not uncommon for pets to get down, especially during periods of change, it’s rare for dogs to suffer from long-term depression. Dog symptoms of depression are very similar to those in people. They become withdrawn and inactive. Their eating and sleeping habits often change and they often do not participate in the things they once enjoyed.

The two most common triggers of dog depression are the loss of a companion animal or the loss of an owner. However, before making a diagnosis, be sure that your furry companion is not reacting to the emotions of the people in the home. A dog will pick up on the emotions of his human family. If his owner has died, he could be responding to the grief of others, or maybe he is not getting the attention he has been accustomed to, and that in turn is stressing him out.

Many dogs will bounce back from depression and most often with an all-natural or holistic approach within a few days to a few months with just a little extra love and care. If he is kept engaged perhaps a with a Katie's Bumpers Frequent Flyer from Viandpet. The original Fire Hose interactive toy,  Katie's Bumpers are known to be the best interactive dog toys from many trainers and dog lovers for years. VIAND is proud to offer these great interactive toys for you to have hours upon hours of fun with your dogs. However, these toys are not intended to be chew toys but rather interactive toys. You will find that if you do more of the things he likes to do, or even treat his symptoms holistically, giving them a little more exercise, and fresh air, and some healthy, all natural meals like Aelyon Natural Dog dehydrated chicken based dog food from viandpet and they bounce back soon.. 

Do remember too, that if your dog shows you that he is anxious or uncomfortable, especially at a stressful or unusual time, it is important to realize that hiding, barking or squirming  is much better than going straight to biting. A dog should not be punished for showing you that he wants to be left alone by growling, or by leaving the situation. If you punish a dog for showing anxiety you will suppress the warning or avoidance behavior and next time he might just bite without letting you know he is upset.  The dog will still feel exactly the same way about the anxiety trigger, but now he has no way to show it and no way out of the situation. 

Have you seen your dog raise one paw in the midst of a tumultuous situation? This may look cute but in reality your dog is not happy and does not want to be petted or bothered. He is worried. It is the same with a half closed eye. The poor dog just wants to be left alone. Watch for this when kids are loving him too hard. It is a common expression in dogs when they are being hugged too much or too hard. If you see that half-mast eye when children approach or are interacting with the dog, it is time to intervene and give them all something else to do.

Your dog has feelings just like you do, and like you, may need a peaceful time out, a loving gesture or a redirection of the situation. He loves you. Love him back unconditionally.