When you look at your happy little companion, it can be difficult to imagine them getting depressed. But it can happen.
Following all the excitement and stimulus of the Christmas season, doggie depression can start to set in.
But, just like in humans, there are things you can do to help boost your pooches mood.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top ways to banish your pup’s frownies. So you can have an easier January and know what to do should they ever make a return.
5 Top Ways To Stop Dog Depression
Before we get into the main ways to stop or prevent dog depression, it’s important to check that there is nothing physical affecting your pooch.
Have they become withdrawn or changed their behaviour because of a new injury. Check with your vet to make sure they are physically up to snuff.
Otherwise, let’s get into these doggie depression dusters:
- Give them something new
- Get a regular exercise routine
- Teach them something new
- Reward positive behaviour
- Supplements can help
1. A New Toy is Always Welcome
It may not seem like much, but your dog is naturally inquisitive. Having them in a routine which keeps them cooped up, or doesn’t offer the chance to expel any extra energy can be demotivating for them.
Giving them a new toy to engage with is a great way to break that monotonous cycle and pull them out of the doldrums. 
2. Get an Exercise Schedule
We know we just said that routines can be demotivating for your pup. But there’s a difference between a demotivational schedule and an engaging one.
The main point here is to ensure your pup has consistent exercise opportunities. Regular walks are important for improving their physical and mental wellbeing by battling dog obesity and giving them a healthy dose of feel-good endorphins.
A consistent Walkies schedule is especially necessary if you’ve just introduced a big change like a house move or new addition. This will give your furry friend consistency while also reassuring them that they haven’t been forgotten.
3. Teach Them Something
Just like in humans, learning something new is excellent for battling depression. Keeping your dog’s mind active is as important exercising their bodies.
Teaching them new tricks or having obedience lessons are excellent bonding opportunities for you and your dog.
Plus, your pooch expends more energy learning something new than they do playing with a toy. So this can also be perfect for tiring them out and encouraging healthy rest.
4. Reward Good Behaviour
As a continuation of that obedience training point, it’s important to reward your pup when they do something positive.
Healthy dog treats are great for emphasising praise while watching their weight. But, rather than just offering treats to cheer them up, think about how you can reward them for getting active instead. Otherwise those “cheer up treats” could end up reinforcing their depressive behaviours.
5. Consider Boosting Their Health With Supplements
Ensuring your pet has a healthy balanced diet is essential for looking after their health. A good quality dog food and a few vegetables a day should be fine.
However, vet approved supplements are also a great way to give their immune system a welcome boost.
Our Skin & Coat Chews contain Omega 3 & 6, as well as other fatty acids which are not only brilliant for keeping their fur and skin healthy, but are also proven to enhance your pup’s mood.
Enjoy January Together
January is a tough month for us and our companions. But if we work together, as all great partners should, then we can help eachother navigate the troublesome waters after the festive season.
In the meantime, check out our range of supplements today to make a start on improving your pooches internal and external health.