Separation Anxiety In Dogs

Do you ever come home to find that your dog has created a mess while you were gone? Fido may have gone into the trash, chewed your shoes, or eaten a couch cushion. It’s tempting to dismiss such transgressions as bad conduct, but they’re frequently a symptom of something far more complex: separation anxiety. Continue reading to learn more about this common dog problem from a local San Rafael, CA vet.

What is Separation Anxiety?

The word separation anxiety is a helpful indicator in this case. This is a highly specific sort of anxiety that demonstrates the discomfort and distress that many pets experience while separated from their owners. Dogs are hardwired to function as part of a pack, and they can grow anxious when left alone.

Do Cats Experience Separation Anxiety?

Yes! Cats can also experience separation anxiety. While we may mock Fluffy for being cold and aloof, cats are actually quite emotional and develop strong attachments to their owners. When we are gone, our feline friends can get quite upset.

What Are the Signs of Separation Anxiety?

Fido can’t tell you how he feels, but his actions and manner will give you a pretty good idea. As previously said, one of the unmistakable symptoms is if your dog has produced a mess while you are away. Fido is not attempting to ruin your belongings; he is simply expressing his distress in the only manner he knows how.

Here are a few other red flags:

• Barking
• Howling
• House Soiling 
• Restlessness
• Panting
• Pacing 
• Lip Licking

Fido may also indulge in destructive habits like rummaging through objects, eating non-food items, or even attempting to escape. These things can be really dangerous: if your pet eats something that isn’t safe for him, he could end up in big trouble!

Another indicator is if your dog is overly pleased to meet you. The joyous dance that dogs perform to greet their people is delightful but if Fido appears unusually jumpy when greeting you, he may be anxious. He may also follow you around, refusing to let you leave his sight.

A camera can come in handy here. Pay close attention to Fido’s behavior right after you leave. You could also want to examine if your dog behaves differently when you leave for a ‘scheduled’ outing, such as going to work, vs less typical absences. If you receive complaints about barking, document your whole absence.

How Do You Reduce Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

You can’t talk to Fido to help him out, though he will enjoy the attention. However, there are a few things you can do to assist your dog cope.

Activity: One thing that can be quite beneficial is ensuring that your pet gets adequate exercise. If Fido has a lot of pent-up energy, he’ll be more agitated and jumpy. A good workout or play session can help him burn off that edge, much like a workout does for people. Before leaving for work, take your pet for a vigorous walk. Or, even better, spend some time playing with him. Hopefully, your canine companion will be exhausted afterward and ready for a nap. That would be ideal, as he could sleep during much of your absence.

Entertainment: Dogs often become unhappy due to boredom. Fido can become quite restless when he has nothing to do but look at the walls all day. Make sure your pup has plenty of things to keep him entertained.

Here are some suggestions for this:

• Puzzle Toys
• Kong Toys 
• Dog TV
• Smart Toys

Your dog may also enjoy a good view. He may like watching birds and squirrels, as well as creating noseprint art on your windows.

Of course, Fido needs excitement when you are home. Every day, spend time playing with your pet and going on walks. It’s also good to explore new places. Training can also give enrichment and promote camaraderie. 

In severe circumstances, you may want to seek behavioral counseling. A professional assessment can be quite eye-opening and informative. Ask your San Rafael, CA vet for more information. 

What Should I Not Do For A Dog With Anxiety?

It is critical to remember that disciplining Fido for misbehaving while you are away will not only not assist, but may even exacerbate the situation. Dogs don’t think like humans, and they don’t process information in the same manner. Your dog will not necessarily associate your reaction with his actions, especially after the fact. That might just make him more nervous. It is best to concentrate on positive reinforcement.

You don’t want to go too far in the opposite direction, either. Don’t coddle Fido when you return home, and don’t make a big deal about coming or going. That’s merely rewarding him for misbehaving!

Which Dog Breeds Suffer from Separation Anxiety?

Any dog can have separation anxiety. However, certain breeds are more prone to anxiety than others. Separation anxiety is especially common in Chihuahuas, Labradors, German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Jack Russell Terriers, and Bichon Frises.

Fido’s past also influences his behavior. Separation anxiety is also common among rehomed pets. Unfortunately, this is because many of them have been abandoned or simply separated from their previous owners. Our canine companions become quite close to their humans and can be traumatized when that link is broken. Shelter dogs frequently experience separation anxiety.

Schedule An Appointment At Our San Rafael, CA Pet Hospital

Do you know or believe that your dog is experiencing separation anxiety? Please feel free to contact us at any time. We are your local San Rafael, CA pet hospital and are here to help!