depressed dog?

Question

my sister moved to live with a family and take care of their children and she left her dog here it just sleeps on the couch all day.& doesnt do anything ive tried playing with it and taking it on walks but she still seems depressed wut should i do with her to make her happy?

Answer 1

Dogs are very social animals, like us. Your dog's owner (your sister) left her. If they had a good relationship, your sister was like the alpha female or a parent to the dog. As far as the dog knows she may think she's dead & will never see her again. Take the dog to see your sister as often as you can. Obviously this would be difficult if she lives far away, but do the best you can, and eventually she may start to come out of the depression. Of course you didn't mention what her personality was like before. Ask your sister - maybe that's juts the dog's normal personality.

Answer 2

how was the dog when your sister lived there? Maybe you should take the dog to the vet and have it checked out. Maybe it's diet is not sufficient or it could be a number of things. Have you tried taking the dog to a doggy park. My dogs love it. They always enjoy a "daily" walk. How about another dog to keep it company. My dogs enjoy playing with a pull/tug rope. And they actually "fight" over the white chew hide chips. And we play a game with them. Go fetch, etc. At the dog park, they have a chance to "run." It's a natural thing that they need. Give it lots of love. Brush it's hair, etc.

Answer 3

I believe that animals (most, anyway) experience the same emotions as humans. The dog saw your sister as part of its pack. You need to try to be very patient, especially if the dog starts to act out (maybe by destroying something while you're gone). Try to use the same blanket/toys (with the scent on it) so that it will be familiar and comforting. Continue to take him/her on walks. Take a few minutes each day to cuddle and pet the dog. Go to the website listed below. It says that some vets even prescribe antidepressants for dogs! Good luck!

Answer 4

Give the dog some time. Make sure you give her lots of attention, but be patient, and understand, that dogs do have feelings and they do get depressed.

Start out slow. Take her for a short walk, or give her a favorite toy or treat -- whatever. Talk to her.

Probably the very best place to start is -- put yourself in her situation. How would you feel? What would you want other people to do for you?

Answer 5

a million. Take him on a advantageous walk. 2.Set him up a domestic dog play date. 3. supply him a actual and ascertain no longer something is faulty with him, or that he's in soreness. 4. Play with him. 5. ascertain he's no longer lonely. 6. supply him a abdomen rub. 7. visit a park or some place bursting with different dogs, new smells, and many room to play. 8. Take him for a motor vehicle experience ( If he likes that) 9. Take him swimming or to a lake (If he likes water) 10. supply him an fantastically scrumptious extravagant plate of foodstuff and then sit down down and supply him some loving.

Answer 6

Yes the dog will be miserable for a while but you are doing the right thing by giving it constant and consistent attention. The dog will eventually bond with you. Probably not a good idea to tell your sister how sad the dog seems ... she might feel bad enough already about having to leave it behind.

Answer 7

Dogs become very attatched to their owners, it sounds like this little guy misses his mommy. I wouldtry to distract the dog by taking it for walks in the park, or making sure she gets a lot of exercise during the day. Throw a ball, or get a kong and fill it with peanut butter and let her use her mind. I'm nt really sure what else would work, but you could call your local vet and they should know a lot more about it.

Answer 8

Did it always sleep or is this something new? My dog sleeps about 20 hours a day and she is not old or depressed. Dogs sleep quite a bit. Buy the dog some new toys and take it for walks and it will perk up I'm sure.

Answer 9

We rescued a dog from a show family. He was with his family for almost 3 years and had several dogs with him. It took about 2 to 3 months for him to get out of his depression. We did get another puppy after 6 weeks and we don't know if he got used to his new family or the puppy helped. Spend lots of cuddle time with you new friend. Good luck and it takes time to get over the missing of the former owner.

Answer 10

Don't YOU miss your sister? Well the dog certainly will, too. Of course, a trip to the vet is necessary, to rule out health problems, but for grieving, only time and patience and lots of love will help.