Dog parents encounter a variety of behaviors throughout their pup’s life. One of these is separation anxiety. This is most common in young puppies but may also develop in older dogs.
The team at Balanced Pets in Travelers Rest, SC is equipped to help you deal with your pup’s separation anxiety. We specialize in primary and holistic care for your pets, as well as offer boarding services when you need to leave your pup behind.
In this article, we’ll explain more about separation anxiety in dogs, as well as some common signs that your dog is experiencing it.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is when your dog displays extreme stress from the time you leave them until the time you return. The symptoms vary from one dog to another, but they act as if they are terrified to be alone. While we can’t be sure what is going on in a dog’s mind, most experts equate this behavior to a panic attack in humans.
Experts warn that separation anxiety is not the same thing as anger or boredom- it is a serious condition that needs to be addressed.
The good news is, there are some things you can do to help resolve this behavior: behavioral training, crate training, socialization, and teaching your dog to enjoy being alone.
Common Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Below, we will explore some of the most common signs of separation anxiety in dogs:
Barking/Howling
While it’s true that dogs bark from time to time, if your dog is barking, howling, or yelping excessively while you are out, this could be an indication of distress due to being alone.
Drooling
If you have a bloodhound or it’s mealtime, you can expect some drooling. However, if you return home after an errand and find your dog covered in slobber, there is likely an underlying cause.
Hyper-attachment
According to the experts, hyper-attachment is when your pup follows you around when you are home. You are unable to leave their presence for any length of time. If this is the case, your dog might have separation anxiety and may think that keeping you close will keep you from leaving.
Accidents
One of the most common ways that dogs display their displeasure is by leaving presents for you around the house when you’re out. If you find that your dog has had accidents around the house while you’re not home, it may not like being left behind.
Redecorating
If you come home and find pillows on the floor, lamps knocked over, or other furniture pushed out of place, chances are that your dog has is trying to express something. Experts believe that dogs do this either to deal with their anxiety or they are looking for a way to escape.
Destroying things
Sometimes, dogs accidentally destroy things while playing because of their excitement- but sometimes it’s because they are acting out. If this typically happens while you’re out, consider having your dog checked for separation anxiety.
Do You Need Help Dealing with Your Dog’s Condition?
If your dog is displaying the above behaviors, do not punish them. Dogs do not do things because they are spiteful or angry. They do these things because of anxiety and fear. A good way to deal with separation anxiety in your dog is to remove the emotions associated with leaving. Do not make a big deal about it- just slip out quietly. Then, when you return home, do not make a big deal about it. Take your time getting settled before you tell your dog hello.
In some severe cases, medication becomes necessary. If your dog exhibits these behaviors associated with separation anxiety, let the vets at Balanced Pets know about it. We can evaluate your pup and determine if it is separation anxiety or if there is something else happening. If you must leave your pet for an extended period of time, consider our boarding services. We can help your dog feel calm and relaxed while you are gone.