Do you have a dog that seems to be overly attached to you, or display signs of anxiety when you leave the house? If so, your pup may be suffering from separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can be a difficult issue to manage and can be damaging to both the pet and the owner. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs of separation anxiety in dogs, the causes, and what you can do to help your pup through this difficult time.
What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is an extreme fear of being left alone. It is most commonly seen in dogs, but it can also occur in cats and other pets. Dogs with separation anxiety may display a variety of behaviors such as vocalizing (whining, barking, howling), pacing, destruction, excessive salivation, and/or other signs of distress when their owners leave the house.
What Causes Separation Anxiety?
There are several potential causes of separation anxiety in dogs. Some of the most common include a history of abandonment or neglect, a traumatic experience such as being lost or stolen, or a change in routine such as a new home or a new family member. Separation anxiety can also be caused by a lack of mental stimulation or an underlying medical condition.
Signs of Separation Anxiety
There are several signs that can indicate your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. These may include:
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Excessive barking, howling, or whining when you leave the house
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Pacing, trembling, or shaking
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Inappropriate elimination (urinating or defecating inside the house)
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Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors or windows
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Escaping from the house or yard
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Loss of appetite
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Excessive salivation
How to Treat Separation Anxiety
If your dog is displaying signs of separation anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
One of the best things you can do to help your pup is to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This will help to tire them out and keep their minds occupied. Engage in activities such as playing fetch, teaching them new tricks, and going for long walks.
Desensitization
Desensitization is a process of gradually introducing your dog to being alone. Start by leaving the house for short periods of time and then gradually increasing the length of time. Make sure that you reward your pup for good behavior with treats and praise.
Crate Training
Crate training can be helpful for dogs with separation anxiety. The crate should be a safe and comfortable space for your pup, and you should never use the crate as a punishment. You can also provide your pup with toys, treats, and blankets to make the crate a more inviting space.
Professional Help
If you have tried the above methods and your pup is still exhibiting signs of anxiety, it may be time to seek professional help. A vet or animal behaviorist can help you to create a plan to manage your pup’s anxiety and can also provide medication if necessary.
Separation anxiety can be a difficult issue to manage, but with patience and understanding, you can help your pup through this difficult time. Make sure to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, desensitize them to being alone, and consider crate training. If your pup is still exhibiting signs of anxiety, it may be time to seek professional help. With the right approach, you and your pup can get through this together.
