Dog Depression: How to Tell if Your Dog is Down and What Actions You Can Take? 2025

Saying goodbye to a pet is one of the hardest moments anyone can experience.

Then, you have to go home and explain it to your other dog. However, they don't understand what you're saying or why tears are streaming down your face.

That's when they realize...

You left with Minnie, but you came back alone.

Days go by. Then weeks. Fido can't be left alone for more than an hour without howling.

Your dog is truly depressed.

If you're like me, your dog's well-being is one of the most important things in your life.

Depression can affect your dog at any time. It's not necessarily the result of a devastating loss.

So, how do you respond when your dog hits rock bottom?

I will introduce you to some signs to help you recognize if your dog is depressed, but know that you should always trust your instincts.

No one knows your dog better than you. No one.

What does a depressed dog look like?

What does a depressed dog look like?

To find out if your dog is depressed, pay attention to how they act. Any sudden change in behavior or mood could indicate something is wrong. 

There are also specific things you can look for in your dog's behavior that almost certainly indicate depression. And if it's not depression, it's still a problem that needs to be addressed.

What are the signs that my dog is unhappy?

In any case, there's definitely a problem if your dog shows at least three of these signs:

Visible sadness

A dog that lacks enthusiasm or seems "dull" and sad might be a depressed dog. If you know your dog well, you might be able to tell if they're depressed based solely on their expression. If you miss this sign and notice others, don't worry.

This does not mean you are a bad owner or that you don't understand your pet. Dogs are individuals, and some are more likely to show their emotions than others.

Changes in appetite

A depressed dog might stop eating, or overeat as if their life depended on it. It all depends on the dog. Again, in this situation, it's always best to look for sudden and/or extreme changes in appetite.

Sleeping often

An adult dog normally sleeps 12 to 14 hours in a 24-hour day. Puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours a day, so it's hard to note an increase in their case. However, if your adult dog starts to sleep like a puppy, they might be depressed.

Licking their paws

This incessant licking can be a sign that your dog is hitting rock bottom. Remember, there are also physiological reasons that drive your dog to lick their paws, such as bacterial infections, eczema, joint pain, or dry skin. However, if your dog licks their paws and shows other signs mentioned in this list, it may be due to depression.

Hiding

If your dog seems to isolate from the family, it might be a sign of depression. Dogs are pack animals: family is important to them. When they isolate and start spending more time alone, it's never a good sign.

Why do dogs get depressed?

Canine personalities are as individual as human personalities, and their reasons for feeling upset or depressed can therefore vary. However, there are "triggers" that may or may not lead to depression in your dog.

If your dog faces one of these changes and shows the signs mentioned above, it's likely a case of depression.

Why is my dog depressed?

Moving

Like many of us, dogs are reassured by their little routines. Even if you move to a bigger house with an even bigger garden, the old hiding spots where your dog buried their bones might be missed. If this is the cause of your dog's depression, know that it's unlikely this type of depression will last long.

Loss of a loved one

Dogs can grieve just like us. If a dog's owner or a close pet companion passes away, you might notice signs of depression in that dog. But if you don't see these signs after a major loss, don't worry.

Not all dogs suffer in the same way. One dog may wander the house crying, while another might give you lots of licks to help you feel better.

A new family member

If you bring home a new spouse, roommate, or baby, you might notice a change in your dog. Your pet might be jealous of the time you spend with this new person and withdraw into themselves. This type of depression is usually temporary, as your dog eventually forms a bond with this new person.

A new pet

Just like when a new family member appears, bringing home a new four-legged companion can impact your dog's mood. Your pet might be depressed because of all the time you spend with your new pet.

In this situation, again, this depression is usually temporary. Your dog will likely start a relationship with this new pet, which will improve their mood.

A change in your schedule

Accepting a job with radically different hours can affect more than your sleep. Shifting from a day job to a night job also means your dog won't have their little daily walk at the usual time.

Even if your dog continues to walk at regular intervals, schedule changes bring novelties and new friends. The same route, but at a radically different time of day, can mean a big change for a dog!

A New Owner or Temporary Care

There are those heartbreaking moments when pet owners must find a new home for their beloved puppies. And then, there are those times when it's just a temporary situation, like during a vacation. Regardless, understand that your dog doesn't know the difference.

You can leave your dog for an hour, five days, or forever: they feel the same way at that moment. Your dog will likely isolate themselves in their new environment until they feel more comfortable or until you return.

Your Own Depression

It doesn't happen with many pet owners, but dogs can sense our pain. They are empathetic beings. Dogs can detect our sadness and depression, and they can even mimic our feelings.

At the University of Lincoln and Sao Paulo, it was found that most dogs could match the tone of a person's voice to their mood shown in a photo. They know what we look like when we're angry, sad, or happy... And they change their mood according to ours.

How to Respond to the Problem?

If you nodded along with the list of symptoms above, you might be surprised to learn that it's not yet time to diagnose your dog with depression. We are thus at an important juncture.

Since our dogs can't tell us what's wrong, the symptoms you observe might well mask depression... or a physical issue.

So, what are the right reflexes?

After identifying a problem, some pet owners take steps to mitigate the effects of what's causing depression.

Others will first rule out any health issues that could be causing similar symptoms.

The path you choose is a personal decision and depends on your intuition. If you're certain your dog is depressed because someone has passed away or because you've brought a new baby home, then that's a hypothesis that holds.

However, if the cause of symptoms resembling depression isn't as clear, a physical illness may be more likely.

What to Do When Your Dog's Symptoms Don't Really Hide Depression?

Several solutions are available if you think your dog's symptoms might stem from a physical illness.

One of these options is to take your dog to the vet for a health checkup. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination and take your dog's vital signs. From there, the veterinarian should be able to tell you whether or not your dog is suffering from a physical problem.

Another option is to choose a natural alternative.

We will soon discuss in detail how to support your dog facing depression naturally. But know that homeopathic products, tonics, and probiotics can also promote a state of overall well-being in your pet.

Call us to discuss your pet's condition, and we will recommend a care plan to suit their specific state.

How to Comfort a Depressed Dog?

For the very first time, you walk through the front door after a long day at work, but your dog isn't there to greet you. It breaks your heart.

Could they be injured? Or worse?

No, that's right. They're still depressed.

You thought it would pass, but it's only getting worse. You know it won't pass on its own, but what to do?

Everyone who has ever had a depressed dog has pondered this question.

Fortunately, there are good solutions. Although they have emotions, dogs are not so complicated beings. Their needs are simple, and it's usually not too difficult to change their mood. Normally.

How to lift a dog's spirits?

Try one or all of these four tricks to help your depressed dog feel better.

Give More Affection

You don't need to be a canine behaviorist to know that your dog craves your attention. If possible, do not hesitate to praise your dog more often, along with some petting to relax them.

But whatever you do, don't overdo it either! Your dog also needs space.

Dogs are runners by nature. This means they are simply made to run! The feeling of being held in arms can cause anxiety, which is exactly the opposite of the desired reaction. A big hug might help you feel better, but it will certainly worsen your dog's mood.

A few gentle pats on the head and scratches behind the ear are more than enough.

Do Not Underestimate the Power of Play

When you're feeling down, boosting your endorphin levels with some jogging or biking can help. The same goes for your dog, except they usually can't reach the pedals...

A study in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science found that dogs who played with their owner were less likely to suffer from separation anxiety than those who did not.

The study suggests that playing with your dog can strengthen your bond with them, which can help your pet during tough times. It’s the most effective activity for forging the closest possible ties with your dog.

Some Rock and Reggae?

Good news... According to the Scottish SPCA, dogs can really enjoy music! The results of a study found that dogs respond differently when exposed to certain types of music.

These findings indicate that dogs' music preferences can vary as much as ours, but they seem to prefer reggae and soft rock over other types of music. So go ahead and play some Bob Marley and have some good musical times with your dog!

Filling the Void

If your dog is depressed because of the loss of an animal companion, you can help fill the void by bringing another pet home. Of course, you should only do this if your personal situation aligns with this choice.

In addition, no other pet will replace the one you lost, even for your dog. However, it can serve as a distraction that may eventually lead to forging a new bond, which can help improve your dog's mood.

Prescription Medications for Dog Depression

Some people prefer the route of conventional medicine and opt for prescription medications to alleviate their dog's depression.

Studies have shown that the following medications are relatively safe and effective, but be aware that they can still cause undesirable side effects.

AMITRIPTYLINE

Veterinarians often prescribe this medication to relieve anxiety in pets. It regulates serotonin and norepinephrine levels to restore balance.

Common side effects: Drowsiness, dry mouth, decreased urination, increased heart rate, constipation, vomiting, and hyperexcitability.

DOXEPIN

Doxepin is used to treat depression, certain phobias, and OCD in dogs and other pets. It can also be used as an antihistamine to treat allergies.

Common side effects: Drowsiness, lack of energy, vomiting, and hyperexcitability.

FLUOXETINE

Your veterinarian might prescribe fluoxetine to treat depression, OCD, or panic attacks. It is a generic alternative to Prozac.

Common side effects: Sedation, anorexia, malaise, anxiety, irritability, hyperactivity, and insomnia.

Conclusion

Making a Depressed Dog Happy

Simply throwing their favorite ball may not be enough to shift your dog's mood, but with some research and patience, know that you can support your pet facing depression.

For you and your dog, this period is just a chapter in your life. Once you've resolved the underlying issues, you can return to those joyful days where your dog joyfully rolls around in the park!

If you are concerned that your pet is suffering from a health issue, our Free Animal Health Recommendation can assist you. In addition to receiving advice and recommendations from our Natural Health Advisors, they will also guide you through the products and treatment options that best suit your pet's health needs.