Dog Separation Anxiety- A Common Problem

Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety. A dog often feels anxious when his owner has been gone for a period of time. These anxious feelings can intensify quickly. You can help relieve your dog’s anxiety if you understand you dog’s needs and wants.

Companionship is important to dogs because they are social animals. Companionship and social interaction is as important as food, water and shelter. You must be willing to give your dog plenty of time and attention if you want him to be happy.

The main cause for anxiety, in your dog, is being left alone for long periods of time. Genetics or life experiences can also contribute to anxiety in some dogs.

For a comprehensive guide that will help with dog separation anxiety, as well as other dog behavior problems, check out Secrets to Dog Training by Daniel Stevens.

Certain dog breeds show a predisposition towards separation anxiety. German Shepherds, Springer Spaniels, Weimaraners and Springer Spaniels seem to be prone to anxiety. A dog is more prone to separation anxiety if they have been removed from their mother at too young of an age. A dog who is taken to an animal shelter, after becoming attached to a family or individual, will often develop this phobia. Neglect is the number one reason why dogs develop anxiety separation.

If your dog is suffering from separation anxiety he will follow you around the house becoming anxious when you put on your coat or if he hears the jingling of keys. When your dog thinks you are going to leave he may tremble and cry. Some dogs may become aggressive in an effort to try and keep you home.

After you leave your dog, trying to go after you, may scratch at doors and windows. Your dog may bark or whine throughout the day and he may also chew on anything he can find. He may even urinate or defecate. Licking a part of his body until it becomes raw and bleeding is not uncommon if your dog is suffering from anxiety.

Here are some things you can do to help alleviate your dog’s feelings of separation anxiety:

You must first help your dog understand that he does not have to be overly concerned when you leave. Pretend you are leaving by putting on your coat or taking out your keys and jingling them. The next step can be to open the door. Don’t actually leave the house.  Sit down and become involved in reading or some other activity. Continue to do this until your dog does not react as if he is afraid you are leaving. When he does not react praise him and give him a treat. Your dog is now ready for the next step.  You should leave and then return immediately. Continue this step until there is no reaction. This requires time.  You must be patient.

Check out Dog Separation Anxiety for a complete guide on how to prevent this common behavior problem.

You cannot underestimate the value of giving your dog enough exercise. Daily exercise is very important for your dog. Taking your dog for a long, fast walk is one of the best things you can do for him before you leave for the day. You should walk your dog for 15-20 minutes.

Provide toys for your dog to chew on. It is also a good idea ot give your dog a bone to chew on when you are leaving. This will help distract him as you leave.

Playing classical music, at a low volume, is also beneficial. It will help calm your dog and make him feel he is not alone.

If possible your dog should have a place where he can watch what is happening outside. He will not feel so isolated if he can see what is happening.

You should make plans to have someone walk your dog half-way through the day if your are going to be gone for eight to ten hours. This will provide needed exercise and attention.

When you return home greet your dog calmly but do not appear overly concerned. You must not validate his feelings of panic by being overly sympathetic. This is not being cruel.  When you are too sympathetic you are letting your dog know that his anxious feelings are justified.

Your need to spend adequate time with your dog.  That is why you should consider your family’s situation before getting a dog. Are there long periods of time when you are away from home? Are you able to give a dog the time and attention he will need? Your dog has the right to healthy, happy social activity. Not every family’s situation is best for a dog.

I hope this article has been helpful. For additional help with dog training go to Dog Secrets Discovered.