Down in the dumps pooch?

doris2008

Well-Known Member
Joined
13 March 2008
Messages
3,318
Visit site
Hiya I have a 4yr old staffie called Spike. He is lovely chappie who loves everyone! Recently he hasn't been totally his normal self. He still loves his walks & doesn't have any less energy & loves his toys & playing. He has a normal appetite & is drinking as normal. Coat lovely & sparkl A few weeks ago he had an upset tum - change of food related I think. Settled down after a couple of days.
There was a day a short while back also where eating a markie treat he yelped. And was careful with eating. I figured he had poked himself or something with a toy or stick. I checked his mouth & couldnt find anything & again he seems fine now.
Something is not right though. He is quieter than normal at home. When not sleeping or being given attention he will often sit in the middle of the room with his head just hanging - honestly he looks like a rescue! If you call his name he almost snaps out of it. :rolleyes:
There have been changes in his life over the last year. Me & husband split up & dog moved in with me properly late last year. We had a kind of shared custody arrangement :D but recently ex has lost interest & hasnt seen him now for several weeks. Decision has pretty much been made that he wont have him anymore. I think in the long run that this is best for Spike, but I am wondering whether he is missing him?? Have done a bit of googling on doggie depression but the only real symptom is generally looking a bit down. He sometimes has restless nights where he wonders around a bit & lies in strange places.
We also have my OH's kids a couple of times a week which dog seems to enjoy - wondering whether that has unsettled him a bit too.
If it continues I will take him for a check over & see what vet thinks but wondering whether anyone had any similar experiences??
 
I'd take him to the vet now to be on the safe side, lethargy and depression can be a sign of not being well.

For instance, when our old girl had a tumour, she was still fat and shiny, but she was definitely not right in herself.
(Don't mean to scare you and not saying he has one, just an example!)

He may indeed be feeling the strain of recent events but be careful not to project onto him. Like children, dogs can soak up emotions and atmospheres very easily.
 
Top