Overview
Dogs can become depressed, just like people. You might notice changes in your dog’s behaviour, energy, or interest in the things they usually enjoy. This can be a response to changes at home, health issues, or simply not having enough to do.
If your dog’s behaviour seems different to you, trust that instinct. Small changes can be the first sign they need a bit more support.
Is my dog depressed?
The clearest sign that your dog may be depressed is a change in their usual behaviour. You don’t need to be an expert. If they don’t seem like themselves, you’ll probably notice. Every dog is different, so signs can vary. Some are subtle, while others are easier to spot. Common signs include:
Less interest in walks, play, or interaction
Lower energy or sleeping more than usual
Becoming more clingy or showing attention-seeking behaviours
Becoming more withdrawn
Changes in sleep patterns
Hiding away or avoiding interaction
Whining or other vocal changes
Licking or chewing more than usual
Becoming less tolerant, irritable, or even aggressive
You may also see small changes in body language, such as ears held back or a low, “droopy” expression. Often, owners say their dog becomes harder to interest or engage than before. These shifts in personality can be the biggest clue.
Some dogs have a short dip in mood, especially after a change at home. But if signs last more than a few days, or start to worsen, it’s worth looking a little closer. Speak to your vet if changes come on suddenly, last more than a couple of weeks, or if your dog stops eating or becomes very low in energy. These signs can also link to physical health problems, so ongoing changes shouldn’t be ignored.
Is my dog depressed, or is it something else?
Before being certain your dog is depressed, it’s important to rule out other causes of low mood. Similar signs can be linked to:
Pain or injury
Underlying illness
Anxiety or fear
Dogs are good at hiding discomfort. Changes like low energy, withdrawal, or reduced interest in walks may be linked to pain or illness rather than depression. Conditions from arthritis to diabetes can have strong behavioural symptoms.
If you’re unsure, consider any recent changes in routine, home life, or health. This can help your vet understand what’s going on. If behaviour changes don’t have a clear cause, it’s best to get your dog checked. A vet visit is the safest next step.
What causes depression in dogs?
Depression in dogs is often linked to change in their routine or home environment. There’s often a trigger, even if it’s not obvious at first. It’s usually something that’s changed from your dog’s point of view, even if it feels small to you. Common causes include:
Changes in environment (such as moving home, building work, a new routine, or less time outdoors)
Changes in their social group (like the loss of a person or pet, a new arrival, or you being away more)
Lifestyle issues, including lack of exercise, boredom, or not enough mental stimulation
Emotional factors, such as anxiety, fear, or ongoing stress
Sometimes it’s not one clear cause, but a build-up of smaller changes over time.
Dogs need space to explore, play, and interact, and they rely on routine, stimulation, and connection. When needs aren’t met, it can affect how they feel day to day.
Read more: Enrichment for dogs
What life events can trigger depression in dogs?
Certain life changes can affect your dog’s mood, even if they seem minor to you. Common triggers include:
Moving home
Loss of a person or another pet
A new baby or pet
Changes to your routine or working hours
A busier home environment
Changes to daily routines, such as walk times
If a bout of depression is triggered by a change like one of these, it’s likely to pass as your dog adjusts. A stable routine and lots of love and attention can speed this up as well.
Are some dogs more prone to low mood?
Some dogs are more sensitive to change, but that doesn’t mean depression is inevitable. Dogs who may be more affected include:
Older dogs, especially those with health changes
Dogs with a history of trauma or rehoming
High-energy breeds needing more exercise and stimulation (such as Border Collies, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies)
Temperament also matters. Some dogs are more sensitive or anxious, while others are more adaptable. Early life experiences and genetics may also influence how dogs respond to stress. Seasonal changes, such as shorter days and reduced activity, can also have an impact. The key is recognising what’s normal for your dog and spotting any changes early.
How do vets diagnose depression in dogs?
There’s no single test for depression in dogs. Instead, your vet will likely begin by asking questions about your dog’s health, behaviour, and environment.
A physical exam helps check for illness or pain. Blood or urine tests may be recommended to rule out underlying conditions. Your vet may also review your dog’s lifestyle, including exercise and stimulation levels. In some cases, referral to a veterinary behaviourist may be advised. The goal is to identify whether there’s a medical issue, a behavioural cause, or a change in environment. Early assessment helps guide the right support and next steps.
How is depression in dogs treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Many dogs improve once this is identified. The priority is to address the root issue. Medical problems should be treated first.
Where lifestyle or routine plays a role, small changes can help. This may include:
Increasing exercise and play
Adding mental stimulation
Reintroducing familiar activities
Establishing a consistent routine
Spending more time interacting
Recovery time varies. Some dogs improve quickly, while others need longer support. In some situations, medication may be used alongside behavioural support.
Your vet may recommend a behaviourist for ongoing or complex cases. If your dog’s been depressed, it’s worth knowing that Pet Health Club Plus members get a free 15-minute behaviourist consultation as part of their 24/7 online vet access. It’s a simple way to get expert advice, tailored to your dog’s exact symptoms and situation.
What does a good routine look like?
Daily routine can have a meaningful impact over time, and play a key role in preventing or treating dog depression. Start with simple steps:
Keep feeding, walks and rest at regular times
Provide appropriate daily exercise
Include mental stimulation, such as training or puzzle toys
Maintain regular interaction and time together
Encourage your dog to take part in activities, but let them set the pace. Reintroducing familiar activities can help rebuild interest.
How can you prepare your dog for lifestyle changes?
When you know a change is coming, try to keep as many things consistent as you can. This helps your dog feel more secure as they adjust.
Changes to routine or time alone: introduce changes slowly. Build up time alone in short stages, and use enrichment like food puzzles to create positive associations.
Moving house: after the move, keep feeding and walk times consistent. Set up a quiet space with familiar items first, and let your dog explore one area at a time. Keep early walks short and predictable, using the same cues and routines as before. Ensure your dog has some familiar objects and scents around them to help orientate themselves.
New baby or visitors: where you can, introduce new scents, sights, and sounds in advance, such as playing baby noises at a low level on your TV. Keep your dog’s safe space available, reward calm behaviour, and avoid forcing interactions.
Pay attention to what works for your dog and adjust as you go. If your dog isn’t improving, or seems to be getting worse, it’s worth speaking to your vet.
Dog depression FAQs
How long does depression last in dogs?
It depends on the cause. Some dogs feel better within a few days or weeks, especially after a short-term change. Others take longer if there’s an ongoing health issue or a bigger life change. If things aren’t improving or seem to be getting worse, speak to your vet.
Do dogs get seasonal affective disorder?
Dogs don’t experience seasonal affective disorder in the same way people do, but seasonal changes can affect their mood. Shorter days, less time outdoors, and changes in routine can all play a part. Keeping up exercise, routine, and enrichment can help.
Read more: Dog walking and road safety during shorter nights
Will my dog’s depression go away on its own?
Many dogs improve with time, especially if the cause is a change they just need to adjust to. A steady routine and reassurance often help. If there’s no improvement, it’s worth getting advice from your vet.
Does getting another dog help with depression?
In some cases, companionship can help, especially after the loss of another pet. But it’s a big decision and won’t always solve the problem. It’s best to consider your dog’s needs and speak to your vet or a behaviourist first. Introducing any new pet should always be done slowly and carefully.
Is my dog bored or depressed?
Boredom and depression can look similar. A bored dog may seem restless, destructive, or uninterested, while a dog who is depressed is often more withdrawn or low in energy. In many cases, both can link to a lack of mental or physical stimulation. Increasing exercise and enrichment is a good place to start.
Do dogs get depression after boarding or being left alone?
Some dogs may seem quieter or less engaged after time away from home or being left alone. This is usually linked to changes in routine or environment. Most settle once they’re back into a familiar routine, with extra time and reassurance.
Can puppies become depressed?
Puppies can show changes in mood, especially during big transitions like moving home or learning to be alone. They may seem quieter or less playful for short periods. A steady routine, gentle training, and regular interaction can help them adjust.
Can my mood affect my dog?
Yes. Dogs are very aware of their owners’ emotions and can pick up on stress or tension. Staying calm, positive, and consistent can help them feel more secure.
Are there any studies on depression in dogs?
Research is building a clearer picture of the causes behind depression in dogs, and of the way dogs experience it themselves.
A dog’s environment plays a key role
A 2025 review highlights that dogs are thinking and feeling individuals who need a “good life”. This means their day-to-day lifestyle should offer them free choices, social contact, and positive experiences like play. Depression is often linked to how a dog experiences their environment, rather than a single internal cause.
The review also notes that there’s no single test for depression. Measures like stress hormones don’t tell the full story and can even be misleading in long-term stress. Instead, behaviour, physical health, and individual temperament all need to be considered together.
The gut–brain connection
Research into the “gut–brain axis” suggests a link between digestive health and mood. A 2020 Italian study found that dogs showing depression-like behaviours had a different balance of gut bacteria compared to healthy dogs.
Some of these patterns overlap with those seen in humans, pointing to a possible connection between diet, gut health, and brain function. While there’s still much research to do in this area, the study indicates physical and emotional health may be closely linked.
Challenges in diagnosis
A large-scale 2025 study from the US shows that relatively few dogs receive formal behavioural diagnoses, despite many showing signs. At the same time, there has been a rise in recorded behavioural concerns and the use of calming treatments. This suggests that while vets often recognise when something isn’t right, these cases don’t always fit neatly into labels like “depression”.
Need more info?
If you have further concerns or need more advice about your dog’s wellbeing, have a chat with your local vet.
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Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens, BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS
Published on 04/05/2026 • Reviewed on 04/05/2026