Animals have complex emotions, just like we do: joy, sadness, fear... Dogs in particular are known to be always happy and playful. However, the slightest change in their daily life can disturb them and affect their often cheerful nature (lack of exercise, loss of a family member, the arrival of a new pet, moving, lack of affection, health problems, poor diet...). Thus, it is essential to spot the signs of an unhappy dog to remedy it as soon as possible and avoid that your doggie settles into depression.
Summary
1. He has sleep disorders
2. He has no energy
3. He sulks at his food
4. He is gaining weight
5. He destroys everything in the house
6. He spends his time barking
7. He becomes aggressive or fearful
8. He never asks for your attention or all the time
9. He has a sad eye
To make your dog "smile" again :
1. He has sleeping problems
A happy dog sleeps between 8 and 10 hours a day, especially at night. If your faithful companion often wakes up in the middle of the night or if, on the other hand, he only sleeps during the day, it could be a sign of a deep malaise.
2. He has no energy left
A happy dog loves to play with his owner or his toys and is always up for an outing. If your furball seems apathetic, bored, isolated, and no longer enjoys anything, especially not going for a walk, check his health. If everything is normal, try to vary the activities to get him out of his torpor.
3. He sulks at his food bowl
A dog that stops eating is not a sign of good mental or physical health. If this fasting lasts more than a day, consult your veterinarian immediately.
4. He's gaining weight
Conversely, a dog that only eats and gains weight is also not in good health. The problem can be either behavioral or a sign of poor nutrition.
5. He destroys everything in the house
When a dog is unhappy, it can adopt destructive behavior. Suddenly, he starts destroying everything in sight when his owners are not around. Signs of hyperactivity may also appear as well as uncleanliness.
6. He spends his time barking
Unwanted barking can be a sign of great unhappiness. Your dog needs attention or needs more exercise.
7. He becomes aggressive or fearful
A depressed dog may suddenly become aggressive or even fearful.
8. He never asks for your attention or all the time
Does your dog no longer praise you when you come home? Doesn't ask you for petting anymore and seems less affectionate than before? Or on the contrary, he is always glued to you? Look no further, something is wrong with him.
9. He has a sad look in his eyes
Dogs always look mischievous, as if they're ready to do something stupid. But sometimes their face can turn sad, a sign that they're feeling a little down.
To put the "smile" back on your dog's face:
Establish a routine by setting fixed times for outings and meals.
Choose his food carefully, according to his age, his health condition...
Set aside time each day to play with your dog, as well as a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity.
Let him meet other dogs to work on his social skills.
Develop a strong bond with your dog by working on education and giving him attention.