Is your doggie depressed? Here are some signs to watch for

If you are wondering if your dog depressed, there are several signs to watch for, experts say.

While many cases of doggie downers can resolve themselves within weeks, some last longer and need specialized treatment.

For dogs, experts say there are several signs that should concern owners. Similarly to people, dogs might be less motivated to participate in their favorite activities or have a change their body language, according to the American Kennel Club.

Depressed dogs could be low energy, not want to eat or either be withdrawn or increasingly clingy, too.

“The main thing would be a change in normal demeanor,” Dr. Leslie Sinn, a veterinary behaviorist and certified professional dog trainer, told the club. “What I hear from most of my clients is that their dog is not that willing to engage in activities that previously they seemed to really enjoy.”

Though physical signs of depression can present in humans, they may be more pronounced in dogs. Depressed dogs often have sad, droopy eyes and their ears pulled back.

However, many of these hallmarks may not be present in dogs suffering from depression.

To help depressed dogs, owners should ask whether something has changed in their dogs’ environments, whether their dog is getting as much contact and quality time with their owners as usual, whether their dog is stimulated and whether they exercise regularly, experts say. Addressing all of these areas can help with mild cases of depression, which can improve within days or weeks.

However, serious cases can last much longer.

That’s why professionals often recommend working with someone to understand what could have caused these changes. Canine behaviorists, veterinarians and trainers can determine if a dog’s depression might be a sign of something medically wrong, too.

In some cases, a dog’s depressed behavior could be indicative of cognitive decline, including dementia, especially in older dogs.

Depression and isolation in dogs has also been linked to painful arthritis and heart disease.

Experts can also prescribe medications to soothe dogs – though dog antidepressants are not commonly used. They’re typically prescribed to address a fear of loud noises, strange places, travel, separation anxiety or reactivity around other animals and people, the club notes.

Ultimately, an effective treatment plan can include both medication and strategies to help lift dogs’ spirits.

“I think it’s important to acknowledge that pharmaceutical options aren’t the only treatment for dogs suffering from mental illness, but rather just a part of the treatment plan,” Dr. Kelly Ballantyne, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and the owner of Insight Animal Behavior Services, also told the club.