Identification and prevention of separation anxiety in your dog
Some dogs get upset when their owners leave. They are, after all, a social species and generally do not like to be alone for long periods of time. How can you tell if your dog is just upset that you're out on an errand or if he's suffering from something more serious? Use the following to detect warning signs of separation anxiety in dogs, and help prevent your dog from feeling stress or panic when he is left alone.
Is it really separation anxiety?
Dogs exhibiting separation anxiety go beyond pouting or whining when left alone. Separation anxiety can manifest itself with destructive or self-injurious behaviors, including dirtying the house, destroying everything around you, and even self-harming while trying to run away. Other symptoms may include excessive vocalization, refusal to eat or drink, or panting and salivating when left alone.
However, it's important to remember that many of these symptoms can also be a reflection of other problems, making separation anxiety difficult to properly diagnose. If, for example, your dog urinates in the house when you leave, there are many possible causes, such as insufficient house training or incontinence caused by a physical illness. Excessive panting, salivation, and refusal to eat can also be symptoms of other medical problems, such as dehydration. Some dogs just get bored, and this can cause collateral damage to your belongings.
A red flag would be if these behaviors only occur when your dog is left alone. However, it is always best to consult a veterinarian to rule out possible causes such as illness, age or the dog's own personality. Sometimes the type of destructive act provides a clue to the motivation behind the situation. Chewing on your favorite pair of shoes when you're out and about can be an attempt to entertain yourself during the lonely hours. However, if your dog bites and scratches the door frame when you leave the house, this act can be related to an attempt to go out and find you. New behaviors, which your dog hasn't shown before, are often a sign that something is wrong, so if you're concerned, it's worth contacting your vet or a qualified behavior expert.
prevent stress
Although there is ongoing research into why some dogs feel this way compared to others, some triggers have been identified. According to the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals, The Humane Society of the United States, these include:
- Insufficient socialization as a puppy
- Not being used to being alone
- Changes in the home (masons, new house, etc.)
- Presence of something that has scared your dog (inside or outside the house)
- Boredom
A change in routine, a period of mourning or other circumstances in which people or animals that you used to spend time with are no longer around. Whenever it's in your power, helping your dog cope with any of these scenarios will prevent separation anxiety from developing in the first place. For example, if significant changes develop in the home, monitor your dog's mental state, give him a safe retreat space with some interactive toys and treat dispensers to keep him focused on something else. If your dog has a highly sensitive personality, ask a qualified behavioral expert for some advice to make sure you help your dog feel safe and secure.
Overcome problems associated with separation
If your dog already suffers from separation anxiety, the key to coping with it is to seek professional help from a veterinarian or a qualified animal behavior expert.
The treatment plan might include:
- Satisfy your dog's needs with adequate exercise, as well as sufficient physical and mental stimulation.
- Provide him with interactive toys that stimulate him mentally and provide him with food while you are away.
- Teach your dog how to calm down when he is alone.
- Medication to minimize intense anxiety or panic.
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