Jack seems depressed

[Suzanne & Jack]

I think it is true that dogs feel our emotions. I recently lost my job after 11 years. In the past week I've noticed Jack seems depressed. He barely eats which is not at all like him. He's also gotten very clingy. Our other two dogs have adapted to the new schedule fine, but Jack is mopey. I'm trying to stay positive about my job search, and looking at this as an opportunity for a much needed break. Any ideas how to get him out of his funk? He keeps looking at me with his sad doodle eyes.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I don't think that dogs get depressed. They do pick up on our emotions, though. If you are feeling unsettled or worried, he might be picking up on that. 

Dogs also rely on routine to help them feel secure. They are happiest and most confident when they know what to expect. When the usual routine is disrupted, it can make them feel uncertain. When you were working, you most likely left the house at a set time, returned at a set time, and had routines at set times, so Jack never had to think about when you would be leaving, when you would be returning, or what was going to happen next. Now you may be coming or going at odd hours and that may be making him feel uncertain. He may just be more sensitive than your other dogs, or perhaps they have had more experience with changes in the household. 

I wouldn't worry. Try to be upbeat around Jack, and as much as possible, try to keep to some kind of routine. If the inappetance and clinginess continue, I'd also consider whether he may just not be feeling well, unrelated to anything that is going on in the household. 

And good luck with the job search! 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I would agree.  They are masters at picking up on what we're thinking and feeling...I think mostly through our body language.  He'll feel better when things get back to normal, or what may actually be a "new normal".  Fingers crossed that you'll find the perfect new opportunity.

[Jennifer and Jack]

I am going to guess that Jack is picking up on the different emotions and stressors you are feeling.. They are so in tune with us.. I actually wish my Jack was a little clueless about some of the things going on.. but just like human children, fur children can tell when we are out of sorts and it is probably making him wonder what is going on.

I have only ever had Jack and it takes all of DK for me to raise him, trust me, but  what I find is that if I can walk him... that helps get him on track again..... I don't go out of my way to baby him but just treat him normally .. if I baby him more then usual he thinks something is wrong for him to be babied about...... 

We walk....we might go to Pet Smart if I can get out.. or so something to distract us both... WHen my spirit is calm his is too when I am amped us his is too, when I am worried he thinks there is something to worry about.... 

Dogs are so precious and so in tune with us. Don't worry.... they need to learn to deal with changes and you can do it together.....

[Miss Ellie]

They are so intuitive aren't they!  I think it will just take him some time to get use to the new routine and he will pick up on your positive vibes.  So sorry you lost your job...my thoughts are with you...take care!

[BG and Gavin]

I truly believe that they pick up on our emotions, but just to play devil's advocate...what is your weather like right now.  Is it hot out?  We are in the midst of the dog days of summer which for my guy means lover energy and less of an appetite.  Exercise is a good solution and staying cool.  Swimming is tiring and cooling.  Good luck with your job search.

[Suzanne & Jack]

Actually the weather here has been unseasonably cool.  We've been to the dog park a couple of times this week.  Tomorrow we're going to a dog swim at one of the local pools.  I'm actually glad his appetite has been curbed since he's gotten overweight (97 lbs)

[Bonnie and Kona]

I hope you and Jack begin to enjoy this hiatus. I do know that a dog having it's routine interrupted can be unsettling. I would have expected your dogs to love having the time together and even if is it slow in coming I bet it will happen soon. Good luck with your job search.