Dogs, just like people, are prone to experiencing bouts of melancholy and depression from time to time. On the other hand, in contrast to humans, dogs are unable to effectively communicate their feelings of melancholy or Unhappy. The fact that your dog’s disposition has changed could be due to a number of factors, including the death of another animal or a member of the family, the fact that they are ill or injured, or the simple fact that they are completely and utterly bored out of their minds.
Thankfully, there aren’t many outward manifestations that indicate that your dog is miserable.
Signs That Your Dog is Unhappy
Loss or Gain of Appetite
It’s possible that, unlike in the past, your dog is showing no interest in food. Another possibility is that your dog will start eating significantly more than usual, as canine companions often find comfort in eating in times of stress. Both of these behaviours might be indications that your dog is feeling miserable.
Alterations to the dog’s eating routine may also bring about shifts in the animal’s weight. It’s possible that your dog is feeling down if you notice changes in their eating habits or weight. Keep an eye on both of these things.
Your Pet Dog Is Exhausted
Dogs that are unhappy or depressed are more likely to want to do nothing more than lie around and avoid interacting with the other members of the household. It’s possible that this is just a natural part of ageing, but if it comes on suddenly and you notice your dog moping around or sleeping a lot more than usual, it could be a sign that your dog is depressed.
Low Tail or Tucked Tail
Your dog’s tail will be wagging happily and enthusiastically in the air when it is feeling happy or optimistic. The dog’s tail will most likely be hanging low or tucked in between its legs when it is unhappy, however. Both fear and Unhappy manifest in the form of a slow wagging and a low-set tail in dogs.
Sudden Aggression
It’s possible that your dog is depressed if he or she is suddenly growling and acting aggressively, despite the fact that your dog is typically laid-back and easygoing. If you’ve noticed that your dog is acting much more aggressively towards the people in the house and much more roughly with its toys, it’s likely that they are feeling depressed.
Your dog may be showing signs of physical pain if he or she suddenly displays aggressive behaviour. If you observe this behaviour in your pet, it is imperative that you take them to the veterinarian as soon as you can. If your dog is in pain, the veterinarian will either be able to help it or they will be able to determine what else might be wrong with your dog and help you treat it.
Your Dog Doesn’t Want to Play or Walk
Dogs that are depressed and unhappy may lose their desire to go for walks and play with other animals. It is possible that your dog is depressed if it has suddenly stopped getting excited whenever you grab its leash in preparation for a walk. This is a classic symptom of depression in dogs. It is possible that they will no longer react in the same way as they once did to their favoured toys and treats. The dog is feeling down and sad when it shows less enthusiasm for activities and when, contrary to its typical behaviour, it refuses to go for walks.