What does your dog’s mental health look like?

Before diving right into trying to diagnose our dog’s mental health, it can be helpful to understand what a happy and content doggo looks like. Here are some telltale signs of a healthy pup:

• At mealtimes, your dog eats normally and isn’t possessive over their food bowl

• Your dog is comfortable in their space, without hiding or lashing out at new people in their territory

• You don’t come home to destroyed furniture, a door or window that’s been scratched or chewed as your dog tried to escape

• You can’t see your dogs hip bones protruding

• Your dog isn’t overweight

• When you try to play with your dog, they are excited and engaged

• Poop is normal and consistent, and there are no other digestive issues like vomiting

If your dog shows all of these signs of a happy pup, congratulations! You’ve likely creative an environment that is perfect for your dog’s mental health.

Now, what about when your dog’s mental health isn’t all tail wags and puppy cuddles?

Common problems for a dog’s mental health

Our dogs can’t tell us what they’re thinking, but they can show us when something is bothering them. Here are a few ways that mental health issues can manifest in doggie behaviour:

• Aggression and possessiveness – many Dog Owners assume that aggression and possessiveness is a lack of training or an unfortunate breed quality. While that can be true in some cases, it’s important to remember that aggression stems from anxiety and fear. Dogs who are uncomfortable in their territory or feel that they have to fight for their resources will resort to aggression and possessiveness.

• Destruction of furniture – this can be a sign of a dog that is bored and lonely. This behaviour is often linked with separation anxiety.

• Lack of interest in toys, exercise, and food – If your doggo isn’t their normal bouncy, energetic self, take it as a huge red flag. Your dog might be experiencing canine stress or depression, or there may be something physical going on.

• Anti-social behaviour – Dogs are social by nature. And even if you have a dog breed that is known for independence, your pup should still seek out interaction.

• Vomiting – This may also be a sign of stress or physical condition.

• Excessive barking or howling – This is a common sign of loneliness or distress.

Alright, let’s take a pause. That’s a lot to keep in mind when it comes to your dog’s mental health. But, the more time you spend with your pup and get to know their personality, noticing changes in their behaviour will become second nature. If something is off, you’ll know. And there are plenty of things that you can do to improve the situation.

Follow me for the next installment on 6 ways to improve your dog's mental health.

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