​Do Dogs Have Off Days? Learn Why Your Dog's Behavior Changes As You Age
Do Dogs Have Off Days? Learn Why Your Dog's Behavior Changes As You Age
Just like humans, dogs can tell when their owners are sad or sick. Learn how your dog reacts when it's sad or sick, or when it's on an "off day". Find out why your dog's behavior changes as you age. Then you'll be able to understand your pet better.
Canines can tell if their owners are sad
Canines are very sensitive, and they can sense how you are feeling. They will sometimes lick you, snuggle up to you, or be playful, just to make you feel better. But if your dog is sad, it can also be an indication of depression. Here are some signs your dog may be depressed.
A dog that is stressed out or depressed may not want food. In fact, they might even eat your food instead. It's important to note any changes in diet when searching for signs of sadness. Though the change in appetite could indicate depression, it could also be a sign of something else.
Canines react differently to aging
Older dogs exhibit different behavior patterns than younger ones. Older dogs show less responsiveness to novel stimuli and more undirected behavior. This type of behavior pattern may be due to a decline in neuronal activity. The researchers suspect that the brain regions that control novel responses, including the frontal lobes, are responsible for the differences.
Older dogs may also be prone to social dysfunction. They tend to ignore people, and show decreased social responses and affection. The researchers concluded that dietary enrichment and behavioural enrichment can counteract the cognitive decline associated with aging.
