Thread by @theipaper

Is there a canine mental health crisis❓

🔵 @morris_sophie

inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyl…

🐶A life flush with walks, warm beds, snuggles and attention may not stop your dog from being depressed.

@GuideDogs announced that:

🧠74% of Britain’s 8.8 million dogs could be showing signs of depression and anxiety
🧠18% may have symptoms every single week

How can you tell if your dog is actually depressed❓
The most common symptoms are:

🍗Loss of appetite
🔨Destructiveness
🦮Low activity levels
💬Incessant barking
🤍Loss of interest in things they used to enjoy

“It’s outdated to think that dogs just need a walk or two a day to be content,” explains Dr Helen Whiteside @GuideDogs' Chief Scientific Officer

Puppy trainers have said that five minutes of a mental workout can demand more from your dog than physical exercise.

How can you prevent your dog from being depressed❓

🧩Food-based problem-solving puzzles
🪀Foraging for toys and treats
🐶Interactive toys
👂Sensory activities
🍃‘Sniffari’ walks
👣Physical activities

📈Experts have predicted a surge in these problems for pandemic puppies as their owners return to work.

Different environments like divorce, moving house and children leaving home can also cause depression in dogs.

As our mental health plummeted over the past two years, the wellbeing of our dogs could have followed suit

Have you noticed a difference in your pup❓

Read more here ⬇️
inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyl…