A sad baby...

[AdamsBunch]

I have 2 wonderful very high energy boxers but have encountered a little issue. One of our boys, Oscar seems very mopey, not really sad but almost depressed. I'm not sure what has brought it on or how to handle it. About 2 months ago we lost Oscar's brother, Champ and he was devastated. He showered him with lots of special attention and I took him everywhere with me. He seemed to perk right up after a little time had passed. In October we rescued Rufus and Gus so that Oscar would have a playmate while we were at work all day. Things started out great, a few issues of tension or food issues but nothing bad. They play together when they go outside and are inseparable inside the house. But Oscar seems to have become depressed lately. I've noticed his energy isn't the same and he just wants to lay on the bed all day. And he whines a lot more now than he ever has. I don't know what to do. I want to give him extra special attention by taking for rides with just me and him or walks with just me and him so he knows that he is our special boy but I'm afraid Rufus would get jealous. What should I do? Advice please. I want my baby to be happy again.

 

[kayboxer]

Is he eating and drinking okay? I would make sure it isn't an underlying medical problem besides depression. If he is eating and drinking okay, and it is depression, I would take him on special trips by himself. It is like skin kids, they all need their special time to feel "special". The other might be a little jealous when you leave, but he will get over it when you get back.

 

[AdamsBunch]

He is eating more now, he is hitting a growth spurt. He plays when he is outside and plays when you get his toy out but he still just seems sad. I started taking him with me when I go out for a quick Starbucks run, he loves car rides and our local starbucks keeps doggy treats at their drive-thru window. He perks up and has fun but then at night he starts to get sad again and now he has started whimpering/whining and ringing the bell on the door like he wants to go outside when he just came in. I think it's time for a visit from the vet.

 

[ELubas]

I think you are wise to have him vet checked. Any change in behavior like that is worth investigating if only to rule out a physical cause. Good luck and keep us posted.