Seperation Anxiety In Dogs. 5 Things To Consider To Help  Create Calm Dogs!

Does your furry best friend become anxious, destructive, or even aggressive when you leave the house? You're not alone! Separation anxiety in dogs is a common issue that can cause stress for both pets and their owners. Here we look at the main things to consider to try and have a calm dog. 



Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help calm your pup's worries and make leaving home a more positive experience. In this blog post, we'll explore what separation anxiety in dogs is, why it happens in some dogs, and how to address the problem. Calm dogs is at the forfront. 

1) Symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs.

When a dog is suffering from separation anxiety, they may exhibit a number of different symptoms. The most common symptom is excessive barking or howling when the owner leaves the house. Other symptoms can include pacing, panting, whining, chewing on objects, and eliminating in the house. Some dogs may also try to escape from the house or yard.

 

2) Causes of separation anxiety in dogs.

There are many possible causes of separation anxiety in dogs. One common cause is a change in routine. If you suddenly start working longer hours or going out more often, your dog may become anxious when left alone.



Another common cause is a move to a new home. Dogs are very attached to their families and their home, so moving to a new house can be a big change for them. This can often lead to separation anxiety. Other possible causes include being left alone for too long, not getting enough exercise, or having another pet in the house that is getting more attention than they are.


If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety, it's important to talk to your vet about it. They will be able to help you identify the cause and come up with a treatment plan. 



Depending on your pet, they may benefit from a pet behavioural supplement or from behavioural training. There are occasions where the issue may become so problematic, that your vet may recommend prescription medications to help with the issue. 

 

3) How to prevent separation anxiety in dogs.

 

When you leave your dog home alone, they may start to experience separation anxiety. This can manifest in a number of ways, including barking, howling, chewing on furniture or clothing, going to the bathroom inside the house, and more. While it may be tempting to try to console your dog when you leave or give them lots of attention when you come home, this can actually make the problem worse.

 

The best way to prevent separation anxiety is to desensitise your dog to your absence. This can be done by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from them until they're comfortable being left alone for extended periods of time.

 

You should also make sure to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation during the day so they're tired when you leave them alone. Finally, don't make a big deal out of coming and going - just act like it's no big deal and they'll eventually catch on.

 

4) How to treat separation anxiety in dogs.

 

If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help ease their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable. Here are a few tips on how to treat separation anxiety in dogs:

 

-Create a safe space for your dog: This could be a crate or a designated area in your home where your dog feels safe and secure. Make sure this space is comfortable for them with plenty of blankets and toys.

 

-Start with short separations: If you're going to be gone for an extended period of time, start by leaving your dog for short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time you're gone. This will help them get used to being away from you.

 

-Give them plenty of exercise: A tired dog is a happy dog! Be sure to give your dog plenty of exercise before you leave so they're tired out and less likely to worry about your absence.

 

-Leave them with something comforting: Whether it's a favorite toy or piece of clothing that smells like you, leaving your dog with something comforting can help ease their anxiety.

- Consider the use of a supplement that may help create a balanced mindset, and have soothing effects on the brain of a dog which can help significantly.

 

5) Separation anxiety in dogs vs. other anxiety disorders

Separation anxiety in dogs is a very common anxiety disorder that affects dogs of all ages. However, it is important to note that separation anxiety is different from other types of anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety or general anxiety.



Separation anxiety specifically refers to the fear and distress that a dog feels when separated from their owner or guardians. This can manifest itself in various ways, such as excessive barking, whining, howling, chewing, digging, and even urinating or defecating inside the home. 



While separation anxiety is most commonly seen in dogs, it can also occur in other animals, such as cats and rabbits. However, it should be noted that not all animals who experience separation stress are considered to have separation anxiety.



In order for a diagnosis of separation anxiety to be made, the animal must exhibit certain behaviors that are above and beyond what would be considered normal fear or stress in response to being separated from their guardians.



If your pet is exhibiting any of these behaviours, it is important to speak with your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviourist to get a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

Dr. Alan