Dogs are highly social and emotionally intelligent animals, capable of forming strong bonds with their human families. Because of this, they’re also vulnerable to feelings of sadness when something in their world goes wrong. You might have even noticed your dog whimpering, which is one of the common signs.

So, what exactly is dog sadness? Actually, it’s a complex emotional state that can arise due to a range of causes, from changes in routine to emotional or physical distress. Unlike humans, dogs can’t tell us how they feel, so it’s up to us as pet owners to notice when something seems off.

But before we help our best friends, let’s first talk about what causes sadness in dogs.

What Makes Dogs Sad?

Dogs can get sad for lots of reasons. Some are simple, while others are quite complex. No matter what it is, knowing the exact cause is the start of how we can help your dog get back its happy and glowing smile. 

Here are the common causes of dog sadness:

Loss of a Companion.

Dogs feel the absence of someone they’ve bonded with deeply, whether it’s a fellow dog or a human companion. If a dog loses a companion, it might search for them around the house or show signs of confusion and withdrawal. 

Dogs are highly attuned to the dynamics in their “pack,” which includes you and your family. A new baby, a breakup, someone moving out, or even tension between family members can affect them emotionally. They might sense these changes and react with sadness or confusion as they try to adapt. The grief can be real, and it often takes time for them to adjust to this kind of emotional change.

Changes in Environment.

Dogs love a good routine because it seems familiar. This familiarity brings some form of comfort and security to these creatures. This means that big changes in their environment can leave them feeling unsettled. Moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or even a change in your work schedule can disrupt your sense of security. 

For example, a dog that’s used to you being home all day might feel sad or lonely if you suddenly start working long hours.

Boredom.

Dog sadness can come from boredom, especially if they’re a high-energy breed or have an active personality. Dogs need exercise, play, and mental challenges to keep their spirits up. If they don’t get enough stimulation, they might become frustrated, which can look a lot like sadness. Think of it this way: no one likes to be bored, and neither do dogs.

Feeling Neglected or Isolated.

Dogs are incredibly social animals, and they love attention and connection. If they’re left alone for long periods, don’t get enough quality time with you, or feel ignored, it can take an emotional toll. A lonely dog might act clingy when you’re around or, conversely, seem withdrawn and distant.

Health Issues.

Sometimes, a dog’s sadness comes from physical troubles. Pain or illness can leave a dog lethargic and uninterested in its usual favorites. Common health issues like chronic arthritis, dental problems, or an upset stomach can all cause dog sadness. The uncomfortable feeling can make your dog depressed and super sad.

Dogs feel deeply, and their sadness is a gentle reminder that they need love, comfort, and connection just as much as we do. From changes in feeding times to experiencing a loss in the family, a dog's sadness knows no bounds.

- Dr. Paulina Czerska

How to Know if Your Dog is Sad?

Dog sadness and depression can be seen in the littlest things. While they can’t use words to express how they feel, they often show signs through their body language, behavior, and vocalizations. Once you’ve noticed the signs, you’ll be able to start helping your dog become happy again.

Here’s how to know if your dog is sad:

• Loss of Interest in Activities. If your dog suddenly seems uninterested in its favorite activities or food, it could be a sign of sadness.
  
  

• Withdrawal and Avoidance. Sad dogs might retreat to quiet spaces in your home and spend more time alone. Dogs experiencing sadness and depression might prefer to be alone because they are struggling.
  
  

• Changes in Appetite. A sad dog may eat significantly less than usual, turning their nose up at food and even treats. On the flip side, some dogs might overeat when they’re stressed or sad, so watch for unusual changes in eating habits.
  
  

• Low Energy or Lethargy. Sad dogs often appear tired when engaging with the world around them. If your normally energetic pup starts to appear more tired on its usual walks, it might be emotionally drained.
  
  

• Vocalizations. Dogs often vocalize how they feel. If your dog is whining, whimpering, or howling more than usual, it could be their way of telling you they’re sad or distressed. You can sometimes notice this when you start to leave them.
  
  

• Excessive Sleeping or Restlessness. Dogs sleep much more than usual if they’re sad, almost as if they’re trying to “escape” their feelings. Others might have trouble settling down, appearing restless or pacing around.
  
  

• Clingy Behavior. Some dogs respond to sadness by seeking constant reassurance from their humans. If your dog is suddenly glued to your side or constantly nudging you for attention, they might be looking for comfort and security.
  
  

• Physical Symptoms. Sadness can sometimes manifest physically in dogs. You might notice weight loss, licking or chewing, and a dull coat.
  
  

• Unusual Behavior or Accidents. If your house-trained dog starts having accidents indoors or engages in behaviors they’ve never shown before, it could be having trouble with depression.
  
  

• Increased Irritability. In some cases, dogs tend to be irritated and easily annoyed when they get sad. Chewing, aggressive behavior, and irritability are possible signs of dog sadness and depression.

10 Ways to Help a Sad Dog

Once you notice your dog’s sadness and depression, it’s important to take action. There are lots of ways to get your dog out of that sadness hole, and most are quick ways to do so. We’ll show you the easiest ways to make your dog happy.

Here are 10 ways to help your sad dog:

1. Create a Routine and Stick to It. Dogs need familiarity to feel comfortable. A consistent routine for feeding, walking, and playtime can help them feel safe, especially when moving or introducing new pets at home. Plan out a schedule for your dog’s activities based on your own schedule.

   
   

2. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation. Boredom can make dogs feel down, so keep them active and engaged. Introduce new toys or games like hide-and-seek. Try to take your dog on longer walks or try out dog parks around the city. Plus, keep your dog’s mind busy with fun challenges like treat puzzles, learning new tricks, or rotating their toys
   
   

3. Spend Quality Time Together. Sometimes, your dog just needs more love and attention. Cuddle with them, groom them or play their favorite game. Quality one-on-one time helps strengthen your bond and gives them assurance.

   
   

4. Encourage Social Interaction. If your dog enjoys being around others, arrange a playdate with another dog or visit a dog-friendly park. Socializing with people or animals can help lift their spirits and break the monotony of their routine.
   
   

5. Check for Medical Issues. If your dog’s sadness lasts for a long time or comes with physical symptoms like weight loss or lethargy, visit the vet. A professional checkup can help identify issues and solve your dog’s sadness and depression.
   
   

6. Keep Them Comfortable. Create a cozy and comfortable space for your dog to relax, such as a quiet corner with their bed or blanket. As a tip, give them things that have your scent, which can be old T-shirts. This helps them relax and feel safe.
   
   

7. Use Calming Aids. If your dog is feeling particularly stressed, calming aids like pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or soothing music can help them relax. Consider creating a peaceful atmosphere by playing soft classical or reggae music, which has been shown to calm dogs.
   
   

8. Offer Special Rewards. Treats can be a great motivator. Give your dog high-value rewards like pieces of delicious dog treats to bring some joy to their day. Just make sure to give a small amount.
   
   

9. Seek Professional Help. Helping a sad dog isn’t always an overnight fix. If their sadness doesn’t improve, consult a dog trainer or behaviorist for personalized strategies. With time, love, and consistency, your sad dog will bounce back to its happy, tail-wagging self.
   
   

10. Keep Your Dog Company. If you’re too busy to take your dog for walks and games, professional dog sitting and walking services can be a big help. These experts know everything there is about dogs, and they will gladly lend you a hand.

Conclusion

Dog sadness is something every pet parent should be aware of. Our best friends may not be able to speak, but they have their own ways of showing us when they’re feeling down. By knowing the signs and ways to help our pups, we can show how much we love them.

From tending to their needs to taking them on new adventures, there are lots of ways to keep our dogs happy. Follow our guide, and you’ll be able to keep your dog happy all the time.