Why Dogs Can Suffer From Depression Just Like Us
Emotional Depression in Dogs: A Comparison to Humans
Let's face it, our furry friends aren't always as carefree as they seem. You guessed it - dogs can experience depression too! Dog psychologist Susanne Rechten from Achim sheds light on the similarities between human and canine depression, plus some practical advice on recognizing symptoms and finding solutions.
Doggy Depression: Is it real?
Yep, absolutely! Thanks to domestication, dogs have adapted to suffer from similar psychological disorders as humans. While their symptoms might look different, they could still be exhibiting signs akin to human depression, such as:
- Physical lethargy
- Sleep disturbances
- Weight loss
- Learning difficulties
- Loss of interest
- Lack of joy
- Increased fatigue after short exertions
- More barking or whining
- Psychosomatic illnesses
The Root Causes of Canine Depression
Doggie depression could stem from a variety of sources. Susanne Rechten explains the main factors behind this troubling behavior:
- Hereditary predisposition
- Stress
- Significant physical and mental strain
- Loss experiences
- Physical illnesses (e.g., thyroid problems, spinal blockages)
- Disrupted neurotransmitter balance in the brain
- Inappropriate keeping conditions
- Aversive training methods leading to learned helplessness
- Traumatic experiences
- Loss of a person (e.g., their owner)
Humans: The Silent Trigger of Canine Depression
You guessed it - humans play a key role in causing psychological illnesses in dogs. Bad breeding hygiene, poor mothering care, coercive training methods, and emotional contagion from their owners can significantly contribute to a dog's depression.
What to Do if Your Dog Seems Depressed
If you notice your pooch exhibiting less enthusiasm and seeming sluggish, it could be a sign of depression. While it's crucial to have a professional evaluate the situation, here are some tips to help manage your dog's depression:
- Consult a veterinarian or certified animal behaviorist who works positively.
- Create or maintain routines, as predictability and reliability help dogs feel secure.
- Avoid stressors as much as possible.
- Engage your dog in regular exercises and play sessions, to stimulate their mind and body.
- Encourage social interaction with other dogs, either via playdates or dog parks.
- Introduce a new companion if the depression is due to the loss of one, but only if it's appropriate for your dog's case.
- Rotate toys and provide continuous training or teach new tricks to keep them mentally engaged.
- Ensure regular check-ups with a veterinarian to monitor well-being.
- Use relaxation techniques like calming pheromones or supplements (under veterinary guidance) to help your dog feel more at peace.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to managing a dog's depression. Every dog is unique, so it's essential to tailor the strategies to your dog's specific needs.
In the realm of mental health and well-being, dogs can face depression similar to humans, which highlights a shared psychological experience between species. Other aspects of life that may impact a dog's mental health include living conditions, training methods, and traumatic experiences, some of which may stem from human interactions.
