Separation Anxiety In Dogs: Causes And Prevention

Whether in a puppy or an adult dog, separation anxiety is a behavioral issue when they experience extreme discomfort when separated from their owner. This intense attachment can lead to various problematic behaviors when left alone.

Common signs include excessive barking, howling, whining, destructive behavior, house soiling, and pacing. This escalates as the owner prepares to leave, and symptoms may continue, even after their departure. It's necessary to differentiate separation anxiety from general boredom or attention-seeking behaviors. While it can be challenging to handle, with patience, training, and sometimes professional help, you can improve a dog's comfort and reduce anxiety levels.

There may be several reasons why some dogs are more vulnerable to separation anxiety than others, including never previously being left alone and traumatic separation from their owner. Even a single traumatic event in the owner's absence, like house theft, can lead to separation anxiety. 

Changes in daily routine, a move to a new place, the sudden absence of a family member, and a child leaving for college or school can also trigger their fear.

Here are some common causes of separation anxiety in dogs:

Strong Attachment

An extremely close relationship with an owner can strengthen a dog's dependence. This deep attachment can be displayed as separation anxiety when the owner leaves. Dogs need periods of solitude to develop self-reliance. Their constant company can prevent this crucial skill from developing.

Constant attention, lack of independent playtime, and treating the dog as a human companion can worsen this issue. Sometimes, excessive attention and cuddling sessions can inhibit a dog's independence and resilience.

Changes in Routine

Any alteration in their daily schedule can prohibit their sense of security and trigger anxiety. Changes like new work hours, vacations, or rearranged furniture setups can confuse a dog. However, consistent routines help establish a sense of normality.

As a family dog, the arrival of a new baby, the departure of a family member, or a change in work schedule can disturb a dog's routine. If an owner suddenly starts working longer hours or changes jobs, it can upset a pup's routine. Also, change of residence can be stressful for dogs, even if the new environment is favorable.

History of Trauma

A traumatic experience can leave lasting emotional scars on a dog, making them scared of staying alone. A history of mistreatment can lead to trust issues and fear of being left alone. Events like abandonment, abuse, or natural disasters can lead to fear and anxiety. 

These dogs often develop a strong attachment figure for security. When separated from this person, they may show separation anxiety signs. Managing underlying trauma through behavior modification and, in some cases, professional help is necessary.

Lack of Socialization

Proper socialization at a younger age is crucial for their emotional well-being. Dogs without sufficient exposure to various people, places, and situations may develop fear and anxiety. It can increase when left alone, leading to separation anxiety. 

Unfamiliar encounters with strangers and unfavorable environments can worsen anxiety. Dogs need positive experiences to build confidence and overcome fears. Even adult dogs can benefit from gradual socialization to overcome stress and anxiety.

Breed Predisposition

Certain breeds are more prone to separation anxiety due to their inherent temperament or breeding history. While not all dogs of these breeds will develop the condition, they may be at a higher risk.

High-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds need significant mental and physical stimulation. Lack of activity can lead to boredom and anxiety. Breeds developed for companionship that involved close human interaction might be more sensitive. 

Underlying Medical Issues

Physical discomfort or pain can contribute to anxiety and behavioral changes in dogs. Conditions like arthritis, allergies, or digestive problems can make a dog irritable and clingy. Age-related changes in the brain can also cause confusion and anxiety in senior dogs.

Treating underlying health issues can significantly improve their overall well-being and reduce anxiety. A thorough veterinary examination is essential to rule out any medical causes for separation anxiety. 

Boredom

Dogs are intelligent creatures that require mental and physical stimulation. When left alone without adequate enrichment, they can become bored. As a result, your furry friends show destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or whining.

Also, a lack of activities can lead to frustration after being left out, contributing to separation anxiety. Providing toys, puzzles, and short periods of exercise before leaving can help ease boredom and reduce the likelihood of separation-related issues.

Inconsistent Alone Time

If a dog is inconsistently left alone, they may find it confusing when their owner will return. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety and stress.

Establishing a consistent alone time routine, even if it starts with short courses, can help a dog adjust to being alone. Gradually increasing the duration of alone time can help build confidence and reduce separation anxiety.

Overprotective Owners

While it's natural to love and care, excessive coddling and overprotection can contribute to separation anxiety in dogs. They need to learn independence and resilience. 

Constant companionship can make it difficult for a dog to adjust to being separated from their owner. Creating opportunities for the dog to spend time alone in different environments, even for shorter duration, can help them develop self-reliance.

Life Changes

Sometimes, moving to a new home, welcoming a new family member, or experiencing the loss of a loved one can alter a dog's routine and make them feel anxious when left alone.

You should provide extra attention, consistency, and patience during these times, which can help your dog adjust and reduce anxiety. Also, creating a calm and familiar environment can be beneficial.

It is a common behavioral issue in dogs, represented by excessive pain after separation from their owners. They can exhibit stress in various ways, so there is no particular sign of separation anxiety.

Instead, there are a variety of symptoms. If one or two happen occasionally, it may not be a sign of separation anxiety. However, if your pup shows multiple signs regularly, they may be suffering from anxiety. 

Here are the common signs that your furry friend shows when they suffer separation anxiety:

1. Destructive Behavior

Chewing is the most common form of destruction. Dogs often express their distress through destructive actions like chewing on furniture, doors, personal belongings, or electrical appliances. 

Dogs might dig at doors, floors, or even in the yard. This behavior can be a way to escape or create a hiding place. Beyond chewing and digging, they might damage other objects in their environment. They might tear up pillows, blankets, or curtains driven by their underlying emotional state. 

2. Excessive Vocalization

These vocalizations often start as soon as the owner leaves, expressing intense distress and loneliness. This can be displayed as persistent barking, howling, or whining. 

Once the owner is gone, the noise rises as a constant and potentially disruptive presence in the neighborhood. Also, the act of grabbing keys, putting on shoes, or even just approaching the door can trigger anxiety and lead to vocal protests. Some might let out a few short bursts of barking, while others might engage in prolonged, high-pitched howling. 

3. House Soiling

This refers to accidents indoors, such as urination or defecation in inappropriate places. Even well-trained dogs can experience accidents indoors when suffering from separation anxiety.

It's a symptom of the dog's emotional state. It's necessary to distinguish between behavioral house soiling due to separation anxiety and medical issues. 

4. Excessive Greetings Upon Return

The spirited greeting can be seen as the culmination of the anxiety felt during separation. The dog might jump, bark, or show other exciting behaviors, sometimes to the point of being overwhelmed. 

While it's undoubtedly heartwarming to be welcomed with such passion, it's often a mixed display of emotion. You should remember that while the behavior might seem joyful, it's rooted in the relief of their owner's return.

5. Attempts to Escape

Escape attempts are a common manifestation of this distress. Some dogs with separation anxiety will try to escape their confinement or the house entirely. These can range from quiet actions to more aggressive behaviors.

Some dogs might show subtle signs like walking near doors or windows, while others might engage in more destructive tactics. Digging at doors, chewing on window screens, or attempting to climb fences are clear signs of a dog's overwhelming desire to escape. 

6. Loss of Appetite

One major symptom of separation anxiety is a change in appetite. Dogs might refuse food or treats, even their favorite treats, due to the stress and anxiety experienced during separation.

This can be displayed as reduced food intake, picky eating, or full refusal of meals, even when presented. In rare cases, if your dog's appetite has significantly changed and is accompanied by other signs of separation anxiety, it is necessary to consult your vet. 

7. Trembling and Panting

These bodily responses are activated by the body's fight-or-flight response, an instinct to prepare for a perceived threat. In the case of separation anxiety, the perceived threat is the absence of the owner.

Trembling is often observed in dogs with separation anxiety, particularly when left alone. It can range from muscle twitching to full-body shakes. Panting, another common sign, is the body's way of cooling itself down. While it's often associated with physical work, it can also be a symptom of stress or anxiety.

8. Following the Owner

Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit clingy behavior, characterized by their constant following of their owners. They may shadow their owners from room to room, refusing to be left out of sight.

For many dog owners, the joy of having a furry companion is occasionally spoiled by separation anxiety. This common condition can be shown in various ways, from incessant barking and destructive chewing to excessive drooling and attempts to escape. 

More than just a behavioral issue, it arises from a deep emotional attachment dogs form with their human families. When left alone, they may experience misery due to the perceived abandonment, leading to irritating behaviors.

Leave A Special Toy

Always provide your dog with their special toy so that they have exciting things to do when you are not close to them. Provide your dog with a long-lasting chew toy, meat-flavored chew, or a treat ball when you go out. 

They should enjoy using their toy when they are present. If your dog doesn't use it, when you are away, it may be a sign that they are worried when you are out. 

2. Graduated Leave-Taking

One effective method to handle their anxiety of separation is through gradual leave-taking. It involves slowly increasing the time you are away from your dog. 

Begin with short absences, like a few minutes, and gradually extend these periods. Reward your furry companions with praise or a treat for showing calm behavior when you are absent, which helps dogs adapt to being alone with positive experiences. 

3. Minimize Disturbances

Some dogs bark at the sight or sound of other unfamiliar things passing by their window or in response to noises outside. You can prevent disturbances by providing them with a calmer environment to thrive.

Provide a comfortable space with their favorite bed and toys and leave them in a quiet room. You can also close the curtains to reduce what your dog can see so that they won't react quickly. 

4. Get A Dog Sitter

If you want to leave for an extended period, keep your dog alone for more hours. You can get a dog sitter so that they won't feel anxious after you leave. 

Adding a dog sitter or dog walking service to take care means someone can keep your dog company and take them for a walk when you are not alone. It is a good way of easing the stress they may feel when their human companion is not close. 

5. Never Punish Your Dog

If your dog does something undesirable when you are out. It is crucial not to show any signs of anger and disapproval. Shouting or showing your disappointment might scare your dog, making the situation worse. 

Your pet will become anxious about what you will do when you return the next time you go out. They might have their ears back and put their tail between their legs. However, if you take their behavior at ease and clean up the mess without any disapproval or scolding loudly, they might be good the next time you go out. 

6. Seeking Professional Help

If separation anxiety is severe or doesn't improve with at-home training, consider seeking professional help.

A dog trainer or behaviorist can provide specialized guidance and support. They can assess the situation, develop a tailored treatment plan, and offer practical advice.