Dog & Puppy Separation Anxiety

What is it?

Separation Anxiety is a disorder described as an intense state of panic when a dog is separated from its owner. It is a very common problem in dogs. Dogs are naturally social creatures and they require a lot of company and social interaction. They don't like to be left alone for long periods and this will vary depending on breed.

Causes of Separation Anxiety

The number one cause is neglect. If you spend more time away from your dog than at home it's likely your dog will be suffering from neglect and symptoms of separation anxiety may already be starting to appear. Dogs who have been separated from their mother and siblings too young often exhibit signs of separation anxiety. Lack of exercise and affection are also common causes of this condition.

Symptoms

Does your dog follow you around just before you leave for work, or when it sees you getting ready to leave? Does your dog chew, dig or bark incessantly, especially when you leave the house? Whining, trembling, scratching at windows and crying are other signs of separation anxiety. In some cases dogs lick or chew at their skin enough so that the skin is raw and bleeding. This is an extreme example of self mutilation but not an uncommon one for dogs with separation anxiety.

What can I do about it?

• Regularise your leaving, don't make your leaving the house a big deal. Practise leaving for work at the weekends. Get your shoes on, pick up your keys, give your dog a treat and go out the door. Then return after a few minutes. Get your dog used to this process. Practising this over time will reinforce in your dog that it doesn't need to panic about you leaving.

• Leave your dog with a treat or something to do as a distraction such as a bone to chew or a toy to play with. If your dog always gets a treat when you leave it will associate your leaving with something positive.

• Turn on the radio: A dog who can hear people speaking will not feel so alone.

• Exercise your dog before work: A good brisk walk before work will not only tire your dog out but provide it with a sense of wellbeing from having your attention. It may even sleep for the rest of the day.

• Don't over empathise: If your dog realises that you 'feel sorry for it', it will become in a heightened state of panic about your leaving. Don't be overly affectionate just before you leave. Make the separation process as 'normal' as possible. The same applies to when you return. If you lavish your dog with cuddles and affection upon your returning, it will reinforce in your dogs mind, that being alone is something to panic about.

If you’re interested in getting a more detailed look at how to deal with your dog’s separation anxiety, you might like to check out the all new DIY Dog Training Program.