What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation Anxiety, a disorder which is triggered in dogs when he is afraid of being left alone or separated from his owner or loved ones. Dogs of all ages go through this condition when they are detached from their handler. This condition occurs in a few minutes after the owner is gone. This may result in self-harm and depression.
Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
There’s no decisive evidence on why dogs experience separation anxiety. However, few reasons may cause a particular behavior.
- Family or Guardian Change:
One of the foremost reasons for separation anxiety is the change in guardian or family or abandoned to a shelter.
- Residency:
When you move to a new city or a house, your dog suffers from separation anxiety as he cannot come across similar things that he is surrounded by.
- Guardian death:
The sudden death of the dog’s parent or change in household management can lead to separation anxiety.
- Schedule Modification:
A change in your schedule where your dog is left alone for a few more hours can develop separation anxiety.
Symptoms of Separation Anxiety In Dogs
Here are some common symptoms that may indicate that your dog is suffering from separation anxiety:
- Barking and Howling:
If your dog isn’t triggered by anything, still he is continuously barking and howling, then he is surely being left alone. This resonating barking indicates that your dog is going through separation anxiety and desperately needs attention.
- Urinating and Defecating:
If your dog keeps urinating or defecating in the absence of his guardian emblems, he feels alone or is separated from his parents.
- Pacing:
This change in behavior occurs only when you are not around your furry friend. He walks or trots in a specific path, walks backward and forward, or moves in a circular motion.
- Escaping:
A dog agonized with separation anxiety tries to escape from a place where he feels lonely. He may start digging or chewing unnecessary stuff, which ultimately results in self-injury.
How to Overcome Dog’s Separation Anxiety/Puppy Training
It is distressing to come home and watch your dog upset and messed up. Definitely leaving your job and staying at home round the clock with your dog is not a suitable option.
Fortunately, there are few steps to overcome his separation anxiety and train them for the future.
- Crate Training:
It won’t be wrong to call crate the best tool for puppy training. It is your dog’s friend and your ally. Train your dog to stay in a crate whenever you’re not at home. Decorate the crate with chewable toys and puzzle toys that keep him busy all day. It prevents him from separation anxiety and keeps him comfortable.
- Exercise:
Ensure you spend amazing playtime with your pup before leaving him. This will make him tired and eventually fall asleep.
- Obedience Training:
Teach your dog to sit at the doorstep or lie down and wait for you rather than causing destruction and harm himself. Express your love for him and show him you care!
