Dogs can show signs that look like depression, though their experience isn’t the same as human clinical depression. They may become withdrawn, less active, lose interest in favorite activities, show changes in appetite or sleep, or engage in self-soothing behaviors. A variety of factors can contribute, including changes in routine, loss of a companion, chronic pain, illness, boredom, stress, or anxiety. What this usually means and what to do

• Observe patterns: note when symptoms start, how long they last, and what might have changed in the dog’s environment or routine. Sudden, persistent changes warrant attention [web results show this as a common understanding among veterinary and pet-care sources].
• Enrich the routine: maintain consistent feeding and walking schedules, provide mental and physical stimulation (puzzle toys, scent games, training sessions), and ensure plenty of quality social interaction and positive attention [web results describe enrichment and routine as common interventions].
• Rule out medical causes: mood changes can be linked to pain, endocrine disorders, or other illnesses. A veterinary check is important if there are appetite changes, weight changes, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or other new symptoms [web sources emphasize medical evaluation when mood changes occur].
• Consider environmental factors: a new baby, another pet, a move, or loud noises can affect a dog’s mood. Minimizing stress and gradually acclimating the dog to changes can help [sources discuss how environmental disruption relates to canine mood].
• Possible treatments: for some dogs, behavioral enrichment and environmental management suffice; in others, a veterinarian may discuss medical or behavioral approaches, including sometimes medications, to support mental well-being if depression-like symptoms persist or are severe [sources describe a range of interventions].

Signs you should seek veterinary care promptly

• Sudden, marked withdrawal or refusal to eat for more than a day or two
• Lethargy that doesn’t improve with rest or enrichment
• New pain behaviors, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, or other worrisome physical symptoms
• Behavioral changes after injury, illness, or distressing events that don’t resolve

If you’d like, share a brief description of your dog’s recent changes and behaviors (duration, what you’re observing, any triggering events). I can help interpret potential causes and outline steps to discuss with a veterinarian.