You must have come across Instagram reels showing exactly how our dogs make that puppy face and those eyes that say, "Please don’t go without me," every time their pet parent leaves the house. As pet parents, we all have felt guilty for leaving our dogs behind when we go out.
Dogs like to live in a pack; they do not enjoy being alone. That is why they eagerly follow us to the door, making expectant faces, wondering where we are taking them. However, they get disappointed to realize they are not always coming with us.
For dogs suffering from separation anxiety, it gets worse. Separation anxiety in dogs can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and, at times, self-harm.
Separation anxiety in dogs often happens because they haven't learned to feel comfortable being alone.
Dogs become anxious when left alone or separated from their pet parents, and the behavioral change is extremely stressful and challenging for both dogs and their owners.
Let’s go through the blog and explore some ways to deal with our dog’s separation anxiety.
It is more common with a dog who is very attached to his parent and gets extremely stressed when left alone. It's more than a little moaning when you leave.
Canine separation anxiety can be caused due to many reasons, as mentioned earlier it's very common for dogs to get extremely stressed when left alone by their caretakers, but many other factors can cause separation anxiety in dogs such as:
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Change of ownership
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When dogs that love socializing are left alone.
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Transitioning from a shelter to a family environment
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Change in family routine or schedule
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Loss of a family member
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Lack of socializing
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Underlying health issues can sometimes manifest as behavioral issues and causing anxiety.
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OCD in dog
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Lack of Training
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Insufficient Exercise
- Destructive behavior like chewing wood or other furniture
- Barking and howling more than usual
- Peeing incidents in the house
- Signs of stress when you leave
- Not eating meals
- Restlessness and panting
- Vomiting
- Excessive salivation
If you witness any of the above signs before or while leaving, it may be a sign of separation anxiety.
Dealing with separation anxiety requires patience, consistency, and positivity. Here are some simple and efficient solutions:
- Slow Separation: Gradually increase the time of staying away from your dog, starting with small intervals.
- Leave Your Old Clothes: The smell of your clothes will make them feel your presence.
- Play and Exercise: Tire your dog out physically, as this will help them fall asleep and work as a mental stimulator.
- Create a Safe Space: Let them stay in their cozy and safe space; it will help keep your dog calm and relaxed.
- No Emotional Goodbyes: Avoid making them notice you leaving. Stay low-key and leave without being overly emotional.
- Keep Fresh Water: Provide them with a bowl of fresh water and complete their routine walks before leaving.
- Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive toys can keep dogs occupied and help reduce stress.
- Look for Professional Training: Consult your vet to check for any medical conditions and ask if your dog needs professional training from a behaviorist.
Do not scold, abandon, or punish your dog.
Anxious behaviors are not the result of disobedience; they are distress responses.
Your dog shows anxious behaviors when left alone because he's stressed and trying to handle it.
If you punish him, he might get even more upset, and the problem could get worse.
Separation anxiety in dogs is challenging but treatable. All it requires is patience, empathy, and the right approaches. By diagnosing the signs, understanding the causes, and working on finding solutions, you can help your dog feel more secure and calm when you're away.
Remember, every dog is different, making it important to tailor your approaches and strategies to meet your dog's unique needs.
Time and effort can help you overcome this issue and ensure a happier, healthier relationship with your dog.
