What to do for a depressed dog?

Doesn't sound like she loves it. She's not used to all the activity, noise, and general chaos that a houseful of teenagers can create - I know how that is - I've been there. She has found that hiding under the bed is her safe place where she can go when she's had enough.

I wouldn't worry about her right now. This will take some getting used to. Some dogs thrive in this type of environment others don't and your girl was used to a very quiet and peaceful life before.

Although depression may seem like the obvious problem, she may be sick. First, ri=ule out helath issues. She may have eaten something she shouldn't have.

Moving a dog in the first place is hard on them. It is stressful. But moving into a different family set up could overload him. In his mind, he has been brought into a different pack. He doesn't know who is in charge, what the pack order is, or what his place in all of this is. Of course he is behaving insecure, because he is insecure. You would be the same, as anyone would.

MAke sure he is not being mistreated by the other members. If any of her kids are feeling resentful of your moving in (which many kids would be) they may be mistreating the dog to get back at you.

It could very well be her health. WIth teenagers comes toxic substances like sugar-free gum laying around within dog reach. Also perhaps a little more people food which can cause her stomach issues.

I would take her to a Vet to rule anything out you can't know for sure it isn't her health unless you've taken her which if you have then you can rule it out. They do have medications for dogs for depression and anxiety but you need to talk to a behavior specialist about it.

Are you taking your dog for daily walks to work off the excess stress of moving?

Maybe she needs more attention from you, not just your new family. Maybe she misses when it was just you and the cat. Try giving her more love and play time with just you two, it could help. Good luck.