Dog Separation Anxiety, Dog Separation, Anxiety Dog Separation Training, Dog Anxiety Separation.

Seperations

Some dogs face separation anxiety when left alone. These dogs can resort to destructive behavior when faced with such anxiety, including chewing just about anything, barking or howling, rummaging around in the garbage, digging or even getting into the owner’s bed. When the owner returns, the dog will be overtly exuberant.

Like many dog behavior problems, this too is often encouraged by owners. When we leave our dogs alone, and they howl or moan, we immediately return to console or comfort them, or even give them a bone or a biscuit. If we allow ourselves to be manipulated by our canine companions, they will learn that they can control us through emotional blackmail. This will result in chronic behavioral problems.

Causes of separation anxiety

What causes separation anxiety? Often, it is the way the dog has been treated by the owner. Long drawn out farewells or over dependence on the owner can result in severe separation anxiety. Similarly, traumatic past experience may also result in separation anxiety. If your dog is excessively excited and is then left alone, he will naturally look for something to vent his energy on. He does so in true canine fashion: by chewing or digging or barking.

Sometimes, owner can mistake regular doggie behavior for separation anxiety. For instance, the dog may dig up the yard, chase cats and bark at neighbors when you are not at home because it simply enjoys doing such things. When you are not at home, he makes the most of it!

However, if you have diagnosed the problem correctly, there are some techniques you could employ to leave your dog in a more amicable manner.

Ensure your dog is trained:

Some basic training can ensure that your dog feels comfortable and secure in the absence of the owner. Give it lots of things to do, lots of toys and a digging pit in the yard. A companion pet may be very helpful. Your dog experiences anxiety when left alone because he is too dependent on you for everything. Train him to be self-reliant.

Break the habit:

Change your routine. You probably follow a pattern when you are getting ready to leave the house. Be casual and your dog is likely to follow suit. Give your pet a simple task before you go, like “watch the house”. This will indicate to your dog that you are going out and will be back soon. Never give your dog undue attention before going out as this will only make matters worse.

Follow a habituation regime:

Increase period of time that you are out slowly to help your dog get accustomed to staying without you.

See your vet:

If all else fails, in very severe cases of separation anxiety, the vet may prescribe medication to calm your dog during your absence. However, medication is no substitute for training and should really be the last resort.