To improve this problem, do not be impatient

Besides good feeding management, it is equally important to let dogs have a pleasant mood. Some easily overlooked small issues could adversely affect the physical and mental well-being of dogs. An unhealthy mind is also quite detrimental to the dog's daily life; in serious cases, dogs may develop anorexia, depression, and related problems.

1. Factors leading to psychological abnormalities in dogs

1. Severe scolding and abuse from the owner

If your dog is a shelter dog or a dog handed over by someone else, it's difficult to understand the dog's past. These dogs may have suffered significant psychological trauma, endured many hardships, scolding, or abuse from previous owners. Such dogs are generally timid, reluctant to get close to people, and often prefer hiding in corners. To address this, you can only gradually gain the dog's trust and make it feel safe.

2. Irregular owner schedules

This mostly occurs in busy owners who have irregular daily routines due to work. Sometimes they rest longer; sometimes they don't rest at all for a long time. After coming home, they usually have no energy to play with the dog. Long-term lack of companionship from the owner can make the dog feel lost and lonely. Over time, the dog's personality may become increasingly solitary.

3. Chronic diseases

Minor illnesses that drag on can turn into major diseases. If the dog's condition isn't properly treated and it frequently falls ill and takes medicine or injections, its body will deteriorate. Sometimes the owner may not even realize the dog is sick, delaying treatment repeatedly, which can lead to severe problems.

4. Competing for affection

If your home has more than one beloved dog, or you keep cats, birds, etc., they might become jealous and compete for the owner's attention and affection. This competition creates stress between them.

5. Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common problem among indoor dogs. As soon as the owner is away, various symptoms appear. In severe cases, this can be quite tormenting; some dogs cannot even tolerate the owner leaving their sight.

Some situations require medicinal assistance

6. Disease-related pain

Many diseases cause pain in dogs, forcing them to endure discomfort daily, which certainly affects their mood negatively. Therefore, timely treatment is necessary.

2. How to treat and alleviate dogs' mental problems

1. Go to the hospital for examination and treatment

Some problems in dogs might not be resolved by routine care alone and may require medicinal assistance. Understand the dog's issues and observe symptoms carefully, then inform the veterinarian in detail to discuss the most suitable treatment options.

2. Gradual improvement

Some dogs' problems may not be severe but stem from past experiences causing fear of humans. For such dogs, provide a quieter environment, be more tolerant, and try to help them slowly accept us.

3. More companionship

In the beginning, do not interact too long; just let them get to know you. Then gradually increase communication, feed them yourself, express kindness, and slowly engage in play, progressing step by step.