A UK study (via Guide Dogs UK and CBS News) found that nearly 75% of dogs display signs of depression or anxiety. Even more surprising: 18% experience these symptoms weekly, yet only 36% of owners recognize them.
This gap highlights a serious issue: many dogs are silently struggling, and most humans don’t realize it.
What Dog “Depression” Really Means
Dogs don’t experience depression exactly like humans, but they can show depression‑like behaviors:
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Withdrawal from play or family
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Loss of appetite
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Sleeping more than usual
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Avoiding social interaction
These changes often stem from loneliness, lack of stimulation, or major routine shifts — all common in modern pet households.
Why It Matters
If 3 out of 4 dogs are showing signs of emotional struggle, it signals a need for more mental and social enrichment in their lives. Yet most owners (64%) don’t recognize these subtle signs — meaning emotional well-being often goes unnoticed until more serious issues arise.
How Daycare and Socialization Help
Structured daycare programs can reverse these trends by providing:
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Safe socialization with other dogs and caregivers
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Routine play and exercise to reduce boredom and anxiety
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Tailored programs — group, solo, or senior-friendly — for every dog’s needs
Research shows these environments build confidence, improve mood, and create calmer, happier dogs at home.
Our Approach
Up to 75% of dogs show signs of depression or anxiety — yet fewer than 1 in 3 owners recognize it. At Best Friends Fur Ever, our structured play programs, trained handlers, and customized enrichment programs help dogs reconnect with joy and thrive emotionally.
Want to learn more? Give us a call (410) 773-7529 or schedule a social play evaluation.
To learn more about depression in dogs, check out:
- Animal Wellness Magazine: Is My Dog Depressed? Signs, Symptoms, and Treatments
- CBS News: Study: Pet owners struggle to spot depression, anxiety in dogs
