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My dog is depressed after a pet loss. What can I do to help him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 10 years and 4 months old

We had our other dog put down last August and since then Sammie has been going down hill, more so in the last couple of months. He sleeps all the time, he's not as playful, he whines more than before, he's either resting his head on someone's lap or hiding himself away. He's just not the same dog anymore. What can we do to help him.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 29th, 2019

Try getting him out and going places with you if he likes rides. Make play dates with friends who have dogs so he can play and have the company of other dogs. If you are ready, consider adopting another pet so he has a playmate and companionship. Try gently encouraging him to play with you, teach him tricks or get him involved in a group activity like agility. I hope you can find him something to spark his interest and get him engaged again.

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