Does anyone know if dogs can have depression? My dad went away on a business trip today, and my dog has been hiding in the closet ever since he left. She won't even take treats to come out. We brought over her friend, but she just growled and snapped at her. She isn't sick. Anything we can do to make her feel better until my dad gets back on Wednesday?
2006-12-02 08:44:58 · 9 answers · asked by Sarah 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
I've seen dogs that appeared to be depressed when another dog or person they lived with passed away. The dog might not understand what happened, but he would sense that there is something very different in his daily routine.
Be patient with your dog. Give her some time to adjust. She'll get over it soon enough.
2006-12-02 08:49:55 · answer #1 · answered by Ginbail © 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, they certainly can! Ever read the book, "Greyfrier's Bobby?".... a classic on a dog's depression.
Sounds like your dog's taking his absence pretty hard. Think I'd at least call the vet, and see what he thinks. Your Dad hasn't been gone long, so she may just need more time. If she doesn't, you may want to ask about an antidepressant...vets use the same ones as psychiatrists use on humans.
I've had many dogs, but only one who took my absence like yours is. It's a bond that defies explanation!
You're doing all you can, and that's all anyone can ask.
2006-12-02 09:14:23 · answer #2 · answered by smartycat 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Oh yes they sure can!
We adopted a Saint Bernard. His owner died of cancer and the lady taking care of him could not deal with such a big dog. We have had him for 6-8 months I guess? He was very depressed when we got him! Skinny would not eat much, just laid around.
He is coming out of it, slowly! He had some bad habits when he got here and has pretty much got a handle on not doing such things. He has also taken over being top dog, him and the mastiff fight some...
I also had a Aussie whom (when me and the guy broke up) nearly killed himself. Would not eat, would not play, pulling his hair out so he was almost bold. Very depressed. I took him to the parents of the ex and told them he has to go with the ex or he was going to die.
The story goes back in the civil war I think it was, the farmers who had to go off to fight there dogs would not eat etc. Some of the men got there dogs sent to them. This is rumor but does go with this subject.
I bet she snaps out of it when he gets back! I bet she does not let him out of her site!!
2006-12-02 09:05:50 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Seperation anxiety - the dog must really love your dad. If she is an older dog then there is not a lot I can suggest beyond forcing her from the cupboard and then showing her as much kindness as you can - she'll be fine when your dad returns...
2006-12-02 08:50:08 · answer #4 · answered by zappafan 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs get depressed just like anyone else. Maybe if your dad calls you can let your dog hear his voice on the phone. It just might help.
2006-12-02 08:54:38 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs can definitely be depressed and your sure sounds like she is. Maybe giving her a shirt of your dad's to lay on. Maybe the smell of him will make her happier. May be not. She'll just have to wait till he returns. She'll be OK.
2006-12-02 08:51:28 · answer #6 · answered by gumby and pokey 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure fresh water and food is available and that she goes for her walks and potty breaks. Other than that give her some space. After a day or two she should feel better.
It is not uncommon that some dogs react like that.
2006-12-02 08:50:51 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs have all the same feelings we do. Just give her extra love. Maybe let her hear his voice, let her have something that smells like him.
2006-12-02 08:49:57 · answer #8 · answered by ♥N,K,E&DJ'§ Mommy♥ 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try sitting next to her pet her and try talking to her
2006-12-02 08:49:07 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋