Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral problems in dogs. Anxiety occurs when a pet is left along resulting in harmful and destructive activity. Separation anxiety can begin at any age and appears in all breeds. When left untreated, separation anxiety can cause much distress for both owners and their dogs and can lead to a decision to relinquish the dog.
Dogs with separation anxiety show distress and behavioral problems when left alone. Some of the most common displays of anxiety are:
• Destructive chewing
• Howling, barking, and whining
• Digging and scratching at doors and windows
• Urination and defecation (even with house-trained dogs)
According to research published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, several of the symptoms listed above are also some of the most common reasons pet owners get rid of their dogs.
The Humane Society has outlined a few techniques to help handle a pet with separation anxiety.
• Teach the dog to sit-stay and down-stay commands to help them learn that they can remain calm while you go into another room.
• Provide adequate exercise before leaving.
• Confine the dog loosely, such as in a room with a window and toys.
• Take the dog to doggy daycare.
It is recommended to never punish the dog for anything they do when you are not there. Dogs know when their owners are upset or anxious, and that only makes things harder for both of you. And, as always, contact us for additional guidance about how to treat your dog’s separation anxiety.
Learn More:
Salman MD, Hutchison J, Ruch-Gallie R, Kogan L, New Jr JC, Kass PH, Scarlett JM. Behavioral reasons for relinquishment of dogs and cats to 12 shelters. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science. 2000 Apr 1;3(2):93-106.
Does your dog freak out when you leave? The Humane Society of The United States. [cited 2022 Jan 7]. Available from: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/does-your-dog-freak-out-when-you-leave
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