Separation anxiety in dogs

Causes of separation anxiety

There are many different reasons that could cause separation anxiety. It’s more common in dogs that have been replaced and rehomed (multiple times) or dogs that have stayed in a shelter for some time. It could also develop into a problem when the dog is insecure or very dependent on the owner. Separation anxiety can also develop when a dog has had a traumatic experience while being home alone.

Symptoms

A dog’s behaviour depends on the severity of its fear. Dogs that whine or bark when the owner is away can be a nuisance to the neighbours. Some dogs can become very restless, run back and forth and urinate or defecate in the house. In many cases, the dog calms down fairly quickly when he hears the owner coming home. It might seem that there are no issues then, but this can’t be further from the truth. Sometimes, a dog gets extremely enthusiastic when the owner returns. It can be useful to have a camera in the house when the dog is left home alone. You will be able to assess which symptoms and behaviour your dog shows and in which circumstances this happens.

What can you do?

This behavioural issue is not easy to fix since the owner isn’t there when the behaviour is being shown. Intervening is quite impossible. Several points require extra attention. The dog must be trained to ensure that the dog experiences its home as familiar. After that, you can carefully build up staying home alone. You must return home before the dog becomes anxious or stressed. You also need to lead and be clear and consistent when the dog is around you. This way, your dog learns to trust you.

Supplements and other helpful tools

It is very difficult to teach a stressed or fearful animal something. There are different supplements and/or helpful tools available that help your pet calm down and feel more relaxed. It will be easier to teach new behaviour in this state of mind. Vetsend offers a large assortment of products; there are soothing products like Zylkene, Telizen, Adaptil or Pet Remedy. There is also special food available that has been developed for fearful situations, like the Royal Canin Calm Diet . None of these products makes your dog dull.

Leaving and coming back home

It is essential to be as calm as possible when you leave and come back. In both cases, try not to pay attention to the dog. That way, you will show that leaving and coming home is completely normal. If you cuddle your dog extensively before leaving, he may get the idea that something special is about to happen. It’s also important to keep departure signals to a minimum before you go, like turning on the radio. At some point, he will understand that walking to the radio means he’s going to be left alone, and it might make him restless. Try to make sure the dog is in a calm frame of mind before you leave. If the dog is already restless at the time of departure, it will only get worse when you are away from home. Also, walk your dog before leaving. Ask for a bit more effort, like playing a game or do some exercises. A tired dog is more likely to lie down quietly.

Distraction

Giving your dog distraction is very important. When you keep a dog busy, it’s less likely to become stressed. The dog may eventually associate staying home alone as something positive. The best way to distract your dog is with food. Of course, ensure your dog has not been fed before. You can also give him something extra tasty and exclusive that he normally doesn’t get. This way, he will associate being left alone with something super delicious. Think of a KONG toy that is filled with food or snacks. With a product like this, your dog can stay distracted for a longer period.

Crate training

A crate can be a helpful tool to help combat separation anxiety. A big room like the living room or kitchen can be overwhelming for your dog, which would only make the stress worse. A crate can be your dog’s safe place. It’s crucial that your dog is used to the crate (and sees it as its own safe spot) before you leave him alone in there.

Behavioural therapy

Unfortunately, some dogs still struggle, even after trying out the tips and tricks given above. You can hire a professional behavioural therapist that can help your dog.