How can I tell if my dog is depressed? What are the common signs?

We can't diagnose depression in dogs, but I guess it would be possible. I would start with a thorough exam with your vet. They will ask about all of the things that happened around when you noticed her symptoms. They may want to check for endocrine diseases that can affect behavior. If everything checks out medically, they can prescribe medications for anxiety or depression as a trial.

Hello, depending on how long this has been going on you may give him more time to snap out of it. If he continues to be sad for longer than a day, or if he has a decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, then you should have your puppy seen by a veterinarian. Hope this helps and best of luck,

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! In veterinary medicine, we use the term that a pet is depressed when they are acting lethargic or quiet (not active). Sometimes it has to do with their level of mentation also. So the signs are usually that they are not as active as normal, laying around a lot, not playing, not grooming themselves, isolating themselves, and in general, just not acting normally (more quiet than normal). I hope this helps.

Some signs that may indicate that your dog is grieving, although each dog is different and may exhibit all or only some of the signs. * loss of appetite * lethargy/depression * sleeping more than usual or awake more than usual * accidents in the house * acting up- i.e. behavior issues * separation anxiety * vocalizations—not necessarily barking, but howling, whimpering and whining. * personality changes

Putting human emotions on dogs (like depression) is called anthropomorphism. There is no way to quantify this in dogs. Is it possible the puppy with be confused and unsure of what is going on if you give her away - but to label it depression......no one knows. But it will better that she move on to another person if you cannot take care of her for whatever reason. Do what is best for her. If you cannot manage her then get her with someone who can. She will be fine.

Yes, dogs can go through a grieving process after a loss just as we do. Being so young though, you should have Runt examined by your veterinarian to diagnose illness or injury first. If he checks out medically, then you can support him by spending more time with him and engaging him in exercise and activity. Make sure he is eating and drinking normally. It may take time, but he should come through his grief if that if that is his issue.

Hi there and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is a possibility you may see a little depression in the dogs initially, but in my experience dogs tend to adapt and will probably bounce back quickly. If your parents are noticing depression in Rocky once he moves perhaps they could find a doggy day care where he could interact and play with other dogs occasionally. Best of lucky to Rocky on the move!