How to Address Separation Anxiety
There continues to be a troubling trend in pet ownership, and it’s not getting better. 2020 saw us all staying home more, and with our pets almost 24/7. It also saw a record number of people acquire their first pet. While this was a wonderful time for bonding, and our dogs definitely loved it, now that we are out more, our dogs are left at home alone and confused. We’ve been seeing an increase in signs of separation anxiety in pets, both young and old. While it may seem adorable that your dog wants to always be around you and whines when you leave, separation anxiety is no joke and definitely impacts both your and your pets quality of life.
If you’re experiencing this, you are not alone. We were all around our pets more, and trained them to need us to help regulate their feelings and emotions. Dogs with separation anxiety may whine or appear to be in distress, as you begin to leave. They may also become disruptive or destructive when left alone, even for a short period of time. In more extreme cases, they may attempt to escape and end up severely injuring themselves, damaging property, or objects left in the room.
What is separation anxiety?
It is much more serious than typical stressed behaviors and goes way beyond a little whimper or the occasional chewed sock or toy. It is also not the same as boredom, or just general mischief. True, diagnosed separation anxiety is the result of a legitimate stress response both physically and mentally. Not every dog that destroys something has separation anxiety. Many common destructive behaviors can be corrected with proper and adequate training. Especially when it comes to understanding good manners when you’re not around. If you have specific questions about whether your dog has separation anxiety, you should definitely rule out any medical concerns in addition to seeking proper training, before trying to solve the problem with medication.
Separation anxiety is more than just an inconvenience to you, or a danger to your pet’s health. This level of fear and stress is actually dangerous to those you have caring for your pet. Groomers have a more difficult time cutting your dog's hair. Veterinarians and vet techs struggle to assess their health and meet their needs. Dog walkers and pet sitters are increasingly being bit or mauled by fearful and stressed pet’s who are not used to new people entering their home. As such, knowing the signs of separation anxiety will allow you to start addressing them as early as possible.
What are some of the more common signs of separation anxiety?
Urinating and defecating when not in the presence of their caretaker
Barking and howling. When done because of separation anxiety, the barking is persistent and is not connected to any other outside trigger.
Chewing, digging, and other destructive behaviors. This is the most common sign when pet parents start to seek our help. Dogs will chew on objects, door frames, windowsills, or destroy rugs. This is especially dangerous because a dog can swallow objects, break teeth, or cut themselves in the process.
Pacing. Usually a long, fixed or predictable, specific path. You may see your dog walking in straight lines, or in circles.
Excessive drooling or panting.
What causes separation anxiety?
It is currently unclear why some dogs are more prone to separation anxiety than others. However, there may be some triggers, especially early in their life, where it can happen. It could be a single traumatic event, and think of it like having PTSD. Personality could also play a role, with dogs that are more clingy, are more at risk to develop separation anxiety.
Later in life triggers, such as switching schedules, new house and surroundings, or absence of a family member can all also trigger separation anxiety. Dogs thrive on consistency, schedule, and routine. Anytime that is up ended in a sudden manner they are at risk for developing separation anxiety.
So what can be done?
Thankfully there are a lot of steps that can go towards reducing and curing your dog's separation anxiety. Before you start any of these, have your pet checked out by your vet to rule out any medical problems or physical concerns.
If the Problem Is Mild …
Give your dog a special treat each time you leave (like a puzzle toy stuffed with peanut butter). Only give them this treat when you're gone, and take it away when you get home.
Make your comings and goings low-key without a lot of greeting. Ignore your pup for the first few minutes after you get home.
Leave some recently worn clothes out that smell like you.
Consider giving your pet over-the-counter natural calming supplements.
If the Problem Is More Serious …
A dog with severe anxiety won't be distracted by even the tastiest treats. You'll need to slowly get them used to your absence. They may start to get nervous when they see signs you're about to leave, like putting on your shoes or picking up your keys. So do those things, but then don't leave. Put on your shoes and then sit down at the table. Pick up your keys and watch TV. Do this over and over many times a day.
When your dog starts to feel less anxious about that, you can slowly start to disappear. First just go on the other side of the door. Ask your dog to stay, then close an inside door between you. Reappear after a few seconds. Slowly increase the amount of time you're gone. Put on your shoes and pick up your keys. Ask your dog to stay while you go into another room.
As they get more used to the "stay game," increase the amount of time you're gone. Then use an outside door, but not the same one you go out every day. Make sure your dog is relaxed before you leave.
Other fundamentals to consider when your dog shows signs of separation anxiety:
Crate train. While some may disregard this as being an option, it is absolutely your dog's best friend and your ally. It is not cruel or unhealthy to have your dog used to and OK with being crated. It can provide them a safe, quiet place to relax. We have to start by associating the crate with good things, like their favorite toy, food, or puzzles.
Counter conditioning. This is all about raising mentally and physically healthy puppies. We have to teach them to be comfortable in the world and to form positive associations with new experiences. This is part of what it means to socialize a dog. We are exposing them to new conditions and experiences, and helping them understand everything will be OK. As early as possible, teach the puppy that separation has rewards. Start by leaving them for a short time, and then end those with lots of praise and high value rewards. Gradually increase the time you are gone and reward them with an equally high value treat. Work on making your departure routine less stressful by keeping it brief and minimizing the signs that you are about to go. For example, you can pick up your car keys or put on your coat, then go make dinner instead of heading right out the door. Put your keys in your pocket, then go make your coffee and get ready for the day.
Exercise! While this alone cannot cure separation anxiety, it can help treat and prevent it. Make sure your dogs are getting age appropriate physical exercise, especially if you have a larger high energy breed. A dog walker or a pet sitter can help by giving your dog a good midday workout while you are at the office. A dog that is tired and content is more likely to settle down in the middle of the day. We should be exercising their mental muscles as well. Training toys and puzzles are ways to keep their brain still working while you are away.
Medication or supplements. While these shouldn’t be ruled out entirely, make sure to work with your veterinarian to find the appropriate medication and dose for your pet and your needs. Then continue to work on the other aspects of training and =. Things like CBD oils and chews, calming scents and diffusers are great options.
We’d love to talk with you about ways to address separation anxiety in your dog or provide more resources! If you feel your dog would benefit from a walk, you can book that here: funkybunchpetcare.com/walks
