Do you ever come home to find your canine companion has made a mess while you were away? Fido may have gotten into the trash, chewed on your shoes, or even eaten a couch cushion. It’s tempting to dismiss these petiquette breaches as simple bad conduct, but they’re often a symptom of something far more complicated: separation anxiety. Continue reading to learn more about this common canine problem from a local Galloway, OH veterinarian.
The phrase separation anxiety serves as a helpful clue here. This is a unique sort of anxiety that reflects the uneasiness and distress that many pets experience while separated from their owners. Dogs are particularly prone to it. Our canine pals are more or less hardwired to function as part of a pack, and they frequently become anxious when left alone.
Cats can also get separation anxiety. While we may mock Fluffy for being cold and aloof, cats are actually quite emotional and form very strong attachments to their owners.
Fido cannot express his emotions verbally, but his behavior and manner will provide clues. One of the unmistakable symptoms, as previously indicated, is if your pooch made a mess while you were away. However, that isn’t the only hint to look for.
Here are some more red flags:
Fido may also exhibit destructive behavior, like digging, chewing, eating things that aren’t food, or even attempting to escape. These things can be dangerous: your pet could end up in serious trouble if he eats something that isn’t safe for him!
One of the most difficult aspects of separation anxiety is monitoring Fido’s behavior, as this problem manifests itself when pets are left at home alone. If you feel that your dog has separation anxiety, you may want to get a camera and record him. Pay close attention to how Fido behaves immediately after you leave, and watch to see if your dog behaves differently when you leave on a ‘scheduled’ outing, such as going to work, compared to less normal absences. If you get complaints about barking, record your whole absence.
There are several things you can do to help your puppy cope.
Activity: Ensuring that your pet gets enough exercise can be quite beneficial. Fido’s anxiety and jumpiness will increase if he has pent-up energy. A good workout or play session will help him burn off that edge, just as it does for people.
Before you go to work, take your pet for a vigorous stroll. Or, better yet, play with him for a while. Hopefully, afterward, your canine companion will be ready for a nap. That would be ideal, as he could sleep for much of your absence.
Entertainment: One of the reasons dogs get irritated is boredom. Fido can become agitated if he is left to stare at the walls all day. Make sure your dog has toys and enrichment to keep him occupied.
Of course, Fido requires excitement even when you are at home. Every day, spend time playing with your pet and going for walks to discover new places. Training can also help, both by providing enrichment and facilitating bonding.
Consult your veterinarian for particular recommendations.
Maybe. In severe circumstances, you may wish to consider behavioral counseling. A professional assessment can be both eye-opening and informative. You will also learn about dos and don’ts.
The biggest thing? Don’t punish your pooch. This will not only not help, but may possibly exacerbate the problem. Dogs don’t think like humans, and they don’t process information in the same ways we do. Your furry friend won’t always associate your reaction with his actions, especially after the fact. That could just make him more nervous. Positive reinforcement works best.
You also do not want to go too far in the opposite direction. Don’t coddle Fido when you arrive home, and don’t make a big deal about coming or going. That is simply rewarding him for his misbehavior!
Ask your Galloway, OH veterinarian and/or dog behavioralist for further personalized suggestions on how to assist your adorable pet deal with his anxiety.
Any dog can suffer from separation anxiety. Certain breeds, however, are more prone to anxiety than others. Chihuahuas, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Jack Russell Terriers, and Bichon Frises are particularly prone to this.
Fido’s history also has an impact. We also notice a lot of separation anxiety in rehomed pets and shelter pups. Unfortunately, this is because so many of them have been abandoned or separated from their previous owners.
Do you know or believe your dog suffers from separation anxiety? You are welcome to contact us at any time. As your Galloway, OH pet hospital, we are here to assist!
