A vet has revealed the signs your dog might be suffering from depression. In the past two weeks alone, a spike in online searches for 'depression in dogs' has surged by 62 per cent. Dr Anna Foreman, in-house vet at Everypaw Pet Insurance, has suggested that the increase is linked to the post-holiday slump, as families return to work and school.
![[Dr Anna advised owners to look out for changes in their dogs' behaviour over the colder months, such as lethargy, loss of appetite or weight fluctuations (stock image)]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/01/15/13/94121167-14287257-image-a-33_1736948133438.jpg)
She said: 'This increase in contact with their owners over Christmas, followed by a sharp change in January back to normal may drive depression.'. In light of this, Dr Anna has outlined the key warning signs for pet owners and shared tips on how to lift your dog's spirit during the long winter months.
The expert explained how pets can experience depression in the winter due to shorter days, colder weather, and less exercise. The decrease in outdoor activity and sunlight may cause them to become lethargic or lose interest in food and play. Equally, some dogs who do not experience a drop in appetite levels may then gain weight and so be less active, which can contribute to depression.
In the past two weeks alone, a spike in online searches for 'depression in dogs' has surged by 62 per cent, while searches for 'dog depression' have jumped by 21 per cent (stock image). Dr Anna said: 'Like humans suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), dogs can become depressed over the winter months.
