Does Changing Owners Harm a Dog?

If a puppy changes owners during its early life, it generally won't have a significant impact. However, if an adult dog changes owners, it will undoubtedly cause some psychological harm. Initially, they may become withdrawn for a long period, leading to depression, a reluctance to play, and even a loss of appetite, along with feelings of self-blame. But with the new owner's consistent love and companionship, the dog will gradually adapt to the new environment.

In daily life, many people, for various reasons, can no longer keep their dogs and begin looking for new homes and owners. If a dog changes owners before five months of age, it's still in its puppy stage and unlikely to strongly remember its previous owner, so the impact is minimal. However, if an adult dog changes owners, it will definitely experience psychological distress. Most dogs bond strongly with one owner for life. While they may be affectionate and playful with their first owner, a change in ownership can drastically alter their behavior, leading to a reluctance to play or eat, as well as feelings of self-blame. However, with patience, care, and affection from the new owner, the dog will eventually adjust to its new environment.

Signs of Distress in a Dog After Changing Owners

1. Extreme Discomfort

When dogs change owners, they usually experience a great deal of discomfort. They feel lost and disoriented in the unfamiliar environment, which can lead to them becoming depressed and withdrawn. They may stop being the playful and energetic dogs they once were, becoming unusually quiet, and may appear to be completely different. They might be less interested in play, refuse to go outside, or lose their appetite, spending most of their time lying in their beds.

2. Self-Blame

Often, the primary reason a dog is rehomed is due to the owner’s circumstances, such as job changes, pregnancies, or simply losing interest. However, abandoned dogs do not see it this way. In their minds, their owners are not at fault. They believe they have done something wrong to be discarded. They may blame themselves, even reflecting on past behaviors, wondering what they did to make their owner abandon them. These feelings of regret and self-blame can stay with them for the rest of their lives. This self-blame can cause previously assertive dogs to change their behavior drastically, becoming extremely docile in their new homes.

3. Gradual Acceptance

Dogs are very grateful creatures, and with consistent care from their new owner, they will gradually begin to accept and adjust to them, starting a new life. Once they have completely settled into their new home and with their new owner, the depression will fade.If you enjoyed this, try:Pet Naming