Separation anxiety is one of the most frequently occurring problems with dogs who are left home alone for long periods of time and the anxiety can lead to behavior problems, and because dogs are pack animals and very social, being alone causes the animal concern. They do not understand why there is no noise, no people and it feels very unnatural to them. Even having a large home or yard to wander around in may not be enough to eliminate separation anxiety.
Signs of Dog Separation Anxiety
It is easy to find out if your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. Uncontrollable trembling when you go to leave is one of the signs one experiences when experiencing dog separation anxiety. If the dog whines constantly or cries uncontrollably as you prepare to leave or when left alone is a sign of dog separation anxiety. These are the passive signs of separation problems, other signs can become more aggressive. Biting, clawing or otherwise trying to stop you from leaving the house can be the beginning of aggressive behaviors due to separation anxiety and can escalate into uncontrollable issues if you do not directly address the problem. The dog might even take to following you around the home when you prepare to leave trying to form a barrier between you and the door. If these signs are being exhibited, it is important that you start treating the dog separation anxiety as soon as possible so it does not cause further psychological damage.
After you leave the home, the anxiety can escalate leading to the dog scratching at doors and windows in an attempt to follow you and get out. The dog can begin barking continuously, annoying neighbors and wearing animal out as well as get you in trouble with the neighborhood. In an attempt to get attention the dog may take to chewing your items, urinating and defecating in the house despite having plenty of outside time. In advanced cases of dog separation anxiety the animal can take to self-mutilation. You want to stop the anxiety and make the dog feel secure before any of the highly adverse behavior begins particularly ones damaging to the dog itself.
Exercise out Nervous Energy
Exercising your dog helps to get rid of pent up nervous energy. By making sure the dog is well exercised you are spending bonding time with the animal as well as expending the excess energy he might have when left alone for long periods of time. While it isn’t always convenient, it is best to give your dog excessive exercise prior to you leaving. Obviously on a daily basis this might be difficult so finding someone who can come and walk the dog during the day is very helpful. Dog walkers not only give the dog attention but also allow the animal to socialize with other dogs. As this routine develops the dog will become less and less anxious. The animal understands routine and will no longer be concerned about whether you will come home or not. Another long play session or outing when you get home also helps reduce the anxiety level of the dog and adds a positive to the overall routine. This can really help to overcome dog separation anxiety.
Toys and Sounds
Leaving the radio or television on when you are away can help offer the dog some comfort. It feels as though the house is not empty and gives the pup a sense of company. If you can allow the dog to go in and out of the home through a doggy door it is often helpful so the dog can “self-medicate” when he gets nervous. This allows him to go run around and play in the yard when the energy is too much. Toys also help give the dog a good outlet for his energy. By leaving bones and chew toys, the dog can choose to release energy by playing by himself or just chewing on the appropriate toys instead of your belongings.
Training the Dog for you to Leave
Concerning dog separation anxiety, some of the training methods to reduce anxiety might seem counter intuitive but you must remember it is all about reinforcing good behavior and ignoring or scolding bad behavior. Work with your dog by pretending to leave. Start the morning routine where you go for your energy-reducing walk and then head towards the door. Open the door and then close it without leaving. Sit down and relax but do not show the dog any affection if he is exhibiting signs of anxiety. Keep repeating the “leaving” process until the dog does not show signs of separation anxiety and then shower the animal with affection; this gives a positive association with the good response versus the anxious response. This gives him a sense of the “right” behavior as well as a belief that you will always come back.