What Are the Causes of Dog Separation Anxiety?

To most pet parents, it may seem like an emotional tug-of-war to leave the house. On the one hand, you are aware that your duties include calls, work, errands, and social responsibilities. On the other hand, you look at the melancholic eyes of your pet dog as you walk through the door. The next thing that usually happens is guilt, frustration, and concern, especially when you come home to chewed furniture, puddles on the floor, or complaints from neighbors. More often than not, this behavior is linked to Dog Separation Anxiety, a common but misunderstood issue faced by many pets.

This isn’t a bad behavior. Most of the time, your dog is suffering from separation anxiety; it is one of the most prevalent and often misconceived behavioral issues that dogs can face.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is the condition that develops in a dog when it experiences severe stress and panic when alone. It is not just an emotional and psychological struggle like simple boredom. Dogs are pack animals, and most dogs are very attached to their human family. They do more than miss you when you leave; they are afraid to be left behind.

Some dogs can display mild symptoms, and others can be in severe distress, even to the extent of self-injury. The primary step to helping your furry friend is recognizing the distinction between disobedience and anxiety.

Common Signs of Separation Anxiety

The dog might not be able to say it to you, but the actions of your dog speak volumes. Beware of the following telltale signs:

• Over Barking and Howling: Crying or howling the second you leave.
• Destructive Chewing:  Chewing furniture or shoes and even doors as a way of releasing stress.
• Accidents in the House: Peeing/pooping inside the house, though house-trained.
• Restlessness and Pacing:  Pacing around and not being able to relax until coming back.

• Drooling, Panting, or Trembling: Physical symptoms of stress.
• Escape Attempts:  Scratching doors, breaking the crate, or trying to follow you.

When you realize that you have more than one of these behaviors whenever you are away, it might be due to separation anxiety.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Dog Separation Anxiety

Other pet owners ignore it by saying the dog is acting out, or they think that the dog will grow out of it. However, not paying attention to separation anxiety may lead to even greater issues:

Exacerbation of Anxiety: Unattended dogs tend to become increasingly terrified with time.

Health Problems: Stress at all times has an impact on your dog in terms of its immune system, digestive system, and general health.

Broken Trust: When you punish your dog or do not understand him, you can break your relationship.

We depend on dogs to offer protection and security. Finding a solution to separate anxiety is not only protecting your house, but also your pet’s mental health.

What You Can Do to Help with Dog Separation Anxiety

The positive aspect is that separation anxiety can be cured through time, perseverance, and occasionally professional treatment. Here are steps you can take:

1. Start Small

Do not leave your dog unattended regularly. Start with a few minutes and increase the time. This numbs them so that they are not sensitive to your absence.

2. Create Comfort Zones

Prepare a comfortable crate or safe spot with their favorite toys, blankets, or even a section of your clothes that you smell of. This brings about a feeling of safety.

3. Use Enrichment Activities

To keep them occupied during your absence, there will be puzzle feeders, chew toys, or treat-dispensing games. Less time is taken by a mentally excited dog to panic.

4. Exercise Before Leaving

A dog is generally a relaxed animal when it is tired. Pre-departure walks or play time are helpful in letting out the energy.

5. Remain composed at the Departures and Arrivals.

Don’t make much ado about going away or coming home. When you are over-emotional, you strengthen their anxiety. Make it consistent, neutral, and calm.

6. Professional Help

In extreme cases, refer to trainers or veterinarians. Treatment may be suggested as behavior modification techniques, anxiety training, or, in some extreme instances, medication.

Additional Tips to Support Your Dog

• Practice independence in the home: Encourage your dog to be in a different room when you are at home. This builds confidence.

• Establish a Schedule: Dogs are creatures of routine. Attempt to maintain feeding, walking, and playtime.
• Apply Calming Aids: Pheromone diffusers for dogs, relaxing music, or anxiety wraps can be used.
• Consider Doggy Daycare: Anxiety in your dog is too great, and you are too busy to think about it most of the time. Occasional daycare is a good way to see and be seen.

The Bigger Picture: Patience and Love

One day, separation anxiety does not go away. It takes time, persistence, and sympathy. You should not forget that your dog is not punishing you because he is chewing your shoes or barking at the door. They are only showing fear, stress, and a desperate need for assurance.

Knowing the cause of the issue and responding with empathy, you can improve your relationship. With time, your dog would come to understand that you would never leave without coming back, and that knowledge can change the world in a short time.

Final Thoughts

The symptom of weakness or bad behavior among dogs is not separation anxiety. It is a scream, and ought to be heard and attended to. With appropriate training, conditioning, and motivation, you can make your pet live a less stressful and happier life without being in your company.

If pet owners need professional training and behavior modification, Petsfolio can provide expert training and behavior modification to fit the unique needs of your dog. Whether it is to deal with anxiety or to establish healthy lifestyles, Petsfolio will be sure that your pet is safe, confident, and loved all the time.