depressed dog

[lilyliz]

any tips on how to cheer up a down dog.My husband died 6mths ago and dog in worse state than me.Took it fav walks, gets fav food and plenty attention, at a loss what to do.

Thats a difficult one. Sorry for the loss of your husband.
I expect things have changed a bit and the dog has picked up on this. My dog got depressed but that was only over the loss of our other dog. Could you arrange to meet with other dogs so they can interact? the only thing I can think of is to keep things as normal as possible but I don't suppose thats very easy to do.
Sorry crap answer.

Sorry to hear about your dh...and your dog (sorry if that sounds smart arse-y - not meant that way!!!)

My dog was down for awhile after my ex moved out - she would lie in front of the door for ages - but she has gotten over it. I think dogs grieve too, and she will feel better in time.

I think its so sweet that you are worried about her

Have you thought about someone else taking her for walks? Maybe she is picking up on your sadness as well? So is sad for the loss of your dh, but also sad for YOU?

I too am sorry for your sad loss. The other posters have said what I was going to - perhaps the company of other dogs is a good idea.

If you are out at work and she's alone would it be possible for you to ask a friend or family member to pop in and just spend some time with her, playing and fussing her, maybe an extra walk if they would? Even if it was once a week it might help brighten your little girl to have some extra tlc. Likewise encourage visitors to make a special effort to give her a cuddle or play in the garden (a great way to entertain others' DC and yours too if you have them!).

I hope that the concern and affection you clearly have for your dog brings you comfort in your sadness.

I am sorry that your Husband has died.Dogs do grieve and can get very low,you could try the homoeopathic remedy Ignatia 200c,in her water or give her a tablet a couple of times a day for three days.You can get it from homoeopathic chemists like Ainsworths,on New Cavendish St London W1,or Goulds ,Crowndale RD London NW1.Both will post the remedy out.It does seem to really help grieving animals.I would also talk to your vet.When my dog was having a bad time the vet suggested a plug in pheremone that seemed to help.I agree too that the dog will be picking up on your own feelings and taking her cue from you,so maybe doing something new with her,a new walk,walking with a friend who makes you feel better ,walking her with someone's dog that she likes,just a change in her routine that will give her a bit of stimulation.I hope she feels better soon.

I'm sorry for your loss.
I'm hoping you can nurse your dog back to their former happy self with some of the good advice offered here.

thanks everybody for you ideas,will certainly try some of them out and will let you know how she gets on.