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 these breaches 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 Richmond, IN vet.
What is Separation Anxiety?
The word separation anxiety is a helpful indicator in this instance. This is a highly specific sort of anxiety that depicts 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 might become 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 removed from our feline companions, they may experience distress.
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. It is critical to recognize that Fido is not attempting to ruin your belongings; he is simply expressing his distress in the only manner he knows how.
However, this is not the only hint to look for. Here are a few other red flags:
- Barking
- Howling
- House Soiling
- Restlessness
- Panting
- Pacing
- Lip Licking
- Disruptive behavior, like rummaging through objects, eating non-food items, or even attempting to escape.
- Being a bit too pleased to greet you. We know, dogs’ happy dances they do to greet their people are adorable, but if Fido appears unusually jumpy when greeting you, he may be anxious.
- Clinginess
One of the most difficult aspects of separation anxiety is monitoring Fido’s behavior, as this condition is most noticeable when canines are left at home alone.
If you feel your dog has separation anxiety, purchase a camera and record him. Pay close attention to Fido’s behavior right after you leave. You could also want to see 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?
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 likely be 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. Hopefully, he will sleep during much of your absence.
Dogs can also become unhappy due to boredom. Make sure your puppy has plenty of things to keep him entertained when you’re out. Every day, spend time playing with your pet and going on walks to explore new places. Training can also give enrichment and promote camaraderie.
Ask your Richmond, IN veterinarian for detailed advice.
In severe circumstances, you may want to seek behavioral counseling. A professional assessment can be quite eye-opening and informative!
What Not To Do With An Anxious Dog?
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. 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 bad behavior.
These are only a few suggestions. Contact your Richmond, IN veterinarian and/or dog behaviorist for further personalized information on how to assist your adorable pet cope with anxiety.
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. Shelter dogs frequently experience separation anxiety. Our canine companions become quite close to their humans and can be traumatized when that link is broken.
Schedule An Appointment At Our Richmond, IN 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 Richmond, IN pet hospital and are here to help!
