The PPs giving advice about long eye contact with the dog have no idea what they are talking about. That is not the way to show love or caring to your dog: Longer, direct eye contact is a way for dogs to establish dominance.

It is threatening to most dogs unless they are very dominant animals. Don't do this.

Lot's of belly rubs, talk to him while rubbing, puts a silly smile on my pup's face. Hang in there!!

Anonymous wrote:It’s because you refer to him as your “adopted dog” instead of your “dog.”

Yes, I’m kidding, sorry. lol.

As an adopted person with an adopted child and an adopted dog, I guffawed at this more than I should have.

Another dog. Im serious. Sorry. Someone he can bond with.

Dog park with other furry friends, park where you are around children, lots of walks in sunshine. What kind of dog is he? I am basing this off my own pup, who seems to love children.

I love dog people! You all are awesome. This thread was an uplifting read.

Anonymous wrote:A PP coming back with a followup question: is the depression recent, or constant since adoption? If the former, it would be worth a health check. One of mine began to seem down after being fairly cheerful and it turned out she had some undiagnosed dental pain. Not saying that's likely the case, but if there's been a change in a downward direction, it's worth checking the medical angle.

+1

Can you get him a date with another dog? He may need some furry companionship.

It’s because you refer to him as your “adopted dog” instead of your “dog.”

Yes, I’m kidding, sorry. lol.

Didn't read all of the replies. But from experience:

Just like with people. Things to take his mind off of sadness. Fresh air, walks (or even stroller rides if he can't walk far), runs (if he is young). Activities he enjoys (you may need to experiment) - try the dog park, going to PetSmart or similar to pick a new chew bone, Himalayan chew bones, games of fetch (if he likes), lots & lots of petting! Car trip to a farm or orchard, or somewhere that allows dogs, etc. basically, cheer him up, as you would with a friend.

Oh - maybe a raw meat bone from the grocery butcher? I can't remember what bones dogs can have. But I think a femur bone (with raw meat on it). Place it on an old blanket or rug, as it will make a mess.

Maybe put out a message on Nextdoor or your list serve, looking for a play date buddy in the yard or at the dog park?

Give him a kiss & doggie massage from me!

Find out this dog’s favorite thing is it a tennis ball being thrown is it a milk bone or a car ride dogs love certain things they will love you too and associate you with those things good luck

A PP coming back with a followup question: is the depression recent, or constant since adoption? If the former, it would be worth a health check. One of mine began to seem down after being fairly cheerful and it turned out she had some undiagnosed dental pain. Not saying that's likely the case, but if there's been a change in a downward direction, it's worth checking the medical angle.

You're all saints. I'm also teary from reading this. Some great advice here, OP, especially the deep eye contact and familiar phrases. Long walks. Lots of love. It is heartbreaking for those of us who love animals.

Good luck!

Anonymous wrote:Good advice. Yes, give them your anti-depressants. It makes a lot of difference.

What? No. This is real life and they will get better by dealing with it.

I had a rescue once who was an emotional mess for a long, long time. She would strain at the leash and try to sniff everyone walking by, clearly trying to get her bearings and find her way home. She was crazy when left alone, tearing up the place to get out. I felt so bad for her. Eventually she settled in and was the best dog of all time -- super loyal and attached. No wonder she had such a hard time at first -- she was that attached to her former owner, too. So glad I stuck it out.

It takes time, OP. Eventually your dog will be totally bonded with you. Seems hard to imagine but it will happen.