question about dogs.

TomTom

This may seem like an odd post, but can dogs get depressed?
My dog is about 8 - 9 and is very healthy. He gets all his usual check ups and we keep an eye on every thing he does.
But latly the dog is off, not playfull anymore, very reluctant to get up and go for walks or even accociated with anyof us if we call him. He still likes to run with cars and takes mad fits of chaseing his tale. He has plaenty of compainship also. This common for dogs that age group?
Don't laugh at me, this dog is like my brother.

Falkorre

Sounds to me like the old boy is growing up
Somtimes it can surprise us when the dog that has acted like a puppy all its life suddenly realises hes a bit older than he thought lol

He may just tire easier, might have arthritis, or maybe hes just depressed, yes, they do get it.

Best thing to do, feed him foods he loves as treats, walk him when *he* wants only give him LOTS of love and hugs and chats and NO MORE chasing cars, its dangerous for dog an driver!!

B

skittishkitten

Yep , I also think he's just starting to feel a bit old. However you didn't mention if he might happen to be overweight also which can cause more stress on his body / bones and also make him more reluctant to get out and do the things he usually loves to do. I would think he is feeling a bit achy since he is being reluctant to socialize much. Does he have any animal companionship or just human ? Sometimes young dogs can make the older ones feel better and more energetic. Also cr@ppy weather could make him not willing to do much. unfortunately it could be any number of things , or combination of things . Depression might be a cause but that would usually be brought on by life change .... loss of a companion or move to a new home . I'd watch him see if he's moving about a bit more carefully , if certain activities seem to cause him pain ( running , jumping , ect ) . Also watch his diet as at his age a good balanced diet is a MUST . Tablescraps are good as a treat IF they are given in small quantities , but should not make up any respectible portion of his diet.

I also agree that chasing the cars is a big NO NO !

Hope he's feeling better soon

TomTom

He does not chase cars as on the main road type of thing, he does it on the evenue of our house (about 150 yeard). He like to belt it up along the lawn near the car. He has slowed down in recent years.
He's in prime condition for a dog, not overweight. He is extremely muscley as he has a good diet and spends (well used to) many hours running around the feilds trying to catch rabbits (never suceedes).

He has no cannine companionship around the house, but he often trailes down to my cousing house relieve the presure. He also spends alot of time playing with the cats. a few of whick seem to think he is their mother, as theirs died at an early age. He also spends time running with the horses as it is the only time he gets a good race.

Falkorre

Can I just say....
I dont mean to insult you but it sounds to me like you have a dog that is allowed to roam and do what he likes when he likes.
Most dogs *crave* their owner placing some restrictions and order and routine in their lives, otherwise they start to feel like ur just somwhere to come to get food and the bond lessens.

B

TomTom

We do have to put restrictions on him as we live on a farm and all our neighbours are farmers.
He is put on a chain at night.
He is not allowed into the neighbours feilds, now I know its impossible to tell where he is every moment of the day but if we are walking by the cattle in the neighbours feild you can tell he longs to go out and run around but he knows he's not allowed. He tried a few times as a pup and returned with gun wounds.
My da dotes on the dog like a child but he really puts the dog in his place if he slightly steps out of line.

tigereye

hes just getting a little old. he also might has arthritis which is very painful so he might not like to walk a lot. you should tell the vet about this problem and he/she would be happy to help you. arthritis is very commen with old or elderly dogs. dont worry, your vet will proscribe some pills for you to put in his food... it will help the pain. and if anybody else needs any advise about dogs( or any animal ) e-mail me.:D