Depression In Dogs: 5 Signs You Have To Watch Out For

We all experience depression at some point in our lives. Stress at work, bills to pay, losing someone and other problems can easily dampen our spirits. Dogs feel the same way and can even spiral into depression just like us. A few common causes of depression in dogs include loss of an owner or a fellow dog, welcoming a baby or another dog, moving into a new house, being left alone for several hours daily and lack of stimulation, among other things.

Here are 5 warning signs to watch out for to know if your dog is depressed:

Change in Appetite

People deal with stress and sadness in different ways. Some lose their appetite while some stress eat and this is how it is with pets as well. If you feed your pet at regular times each day and notice a change in his eating habits, he is most likely feeling emotional. While some eat their way through their sadness, most dogs lose their appetite and lose a few pounds.

Change in Sleep Pattern

While dogs love to sleep, they try hard not to in your presence (especially when you've just come home from work). Normally they would want to play with you and try to get your attention. When he continues to sleep and ignores your presence, he is likely feeling depressed. The same goes when he is the opposite - when he is restless and can't sleep through the night.

Loss of Interest

Dogs love to play with toys, run around and go out for walks. A red flag of depression is when your pet suddenly loses interest in the things that used to excite him. Usually he will ignore you and his toys and he has to be dragged outside for his daily walk.

Hiding

Like us, our pets are not in the mood to socialize when they're sad or depressed. Hiding in a quiet corner in the house or an upstairs bedroom may mean that he's sad.

Being destructive

Some dogs let out their sadness by being aggressive and destructive. While chewing on random stuff may be a sign of boredom, making a mess and excessive chewing might be a sign of depression.

When your fur baby shows a sign or two mentioned above, it doesn't mean that he's depressed. It is still best to get the opinion of your vet for the right diagnosis. In the meantime, shower your dog with love and attention, make sure that he's active and most importantly, don't forget the treats!

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Depression-In-Dogs:-5-Signs-You-Have-To-Watch-Out-For&id=9705024

Solve Those Dog Walking Problems

Walking your dog can be a problem for some dog owners. Sometimes because their dogs don't walk well on a leash. Other dogs are a problem because they show aggression and it is really embarrassing to take your dog in public. However for some people finding the time to walk their dogs is tough while there are also those dog owners who physically have a problem taking a walk, they just can't do it. Let me take just a few minutes to offer some dog walking advice for each of these four problem areas.

My Dog Doesn't Walk On A Leash Well - This probably means that you dog is pulling you down the street. It isn't fun and can sometimes even hurt shoulders and elbows. Teaching your dog to walk on a leash nicely is really easy so find a trainer that can help you get it fixed. While you are at it be sure and teach your dog the sit, down and stay exercises your dog will thank you in many ways as the years go on.

My Dog Is Aggressive And I am Embarrassed To Take Him For A Walk - I know exactly what you mean and I have seen 1000's of people with the same problem over the years. The neighbors all run inside when they see you coming. Here is the answer, it's really easier than you might think.

I have found that 99% of all aggressive pet dogs are also untrained dogs. Yes, it's true. Training can usually solve the biggest part of the problem by simply teaching the dog that it is not the alpha in your pack. Now this does not mean that you dog will be people and dog friendly however it does mean that you will probably be able to go for a walk without people scattering along your path. Find a good behavior specialist because it will take more than just a dog trainer to fix the problem. It will require some work but I think you will agree that it is worth it.

I Just Can't Find Time To Walk My Dog or I Physically Can't Walk My Dog - These are very common comments however there is still hope. If you don't have time for a 30 - 45 minute walk every day or you just are unable to walk, then it's easy hire a dog walker. Do walkers are everywhere, heck you may even have a neighbor who would like to take over that chore for a small fee. If not check with you vet for a referral and if that doesn't work simply do a Google search. Dog walkers are out there and waiting for your call.

I hope these ideas will help you solve your dog walking problems. Your dog's deserve it.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Solve-Those-Dog-Walking-Problems&id=9013004