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Having a dog with separation anxiety is really difficult. Separation anxiety is the most common form of anxiety in dogs and is estimated to affect around 14% of them. It is often triggered when dogs are separated from their owners or guardians and may be as a result of:
- Being left alone at home.
- Absence of a family member.
- Abuse or neglect.
- A change in ownership, schedule, or environment.
Generally, the distressing behavior caused by separation anxiety goes beyond the basic signs of discomfort, such as whining, or pacing exhibited by dogs on separation from familiar faces or environments. It is a serious condition that may manifest in various ways that could leave their pet parents highly frustrated.
Your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety if they do any or all of the following when left alone:
- Howl or bark persistently.
- Salivate more than usual.
- Urinate or defecate around the house even when they’ve already been housebroken.
- Chew things up and damage property.
- Attempt to escape by digging holes and clawing at doors and windows.
Considering that separation from your furry friend may often be unavoidable, here are some smart ideas to help them cope.
Counterconditioning
Counterconditioning helps them associate being left alone with something pleasant instead of being a trigger for anxiety. Before you leave the house, you could try offering them treats such as puzzle toys stuffed with food that will take them some time to consume. Take the treats back when you return home. This way, they soon associate these treats with your absence and may start to enjoy-or at least tolerate-being separated from you.
Exercise
Through exercise, physical and mental stimulation is a great way to distract your dog and is highly effective when done just before you leave him by himself. You can both do some walking or running, or engage in fun, interactive games such as fetch and tug-of-war.
It may also help hide their food in small piles around the yard so they can’ hunt’ them while you’re gone. A well-stimulated dog is more likely to be relaxed than anxious on separation.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is made from cannabis extracts—with its primary component, is cannabidiol and is proven to help dogs calm down and remain calm. Visit ceebeedoo.com to learn more about how CBD can help your anxious pet.
Another benefit of using CBD oil for your dog is that it’s said to help prevent arthritis pain. Read here to see online vendors reviewed.
Downplay Greetings
If you observe that your dog gets anxious when they notice you’re getting ready to leave the house, or become overly excited on your return, it would be beneficial to make your hellos and goodbyes as casual as possible; that is, with no drama whatsoever. A simple pat on the head when going out or coming in will help to prevent an exaggerated response to your absence.
Leave Comforting Items
You may try leaving some recently worn clothes out. These have your scent and could give your pet the impression that you’re just around the corner, even if you’re not.
These measures can prove effective for mild separation anxiety, but behavioral adjustment methods such as counter conditioning will likely not work if your dog has a more severe condition.
In such cases, arranging for a dog sitter or any other trusted individual to stay with them while you’re away (most of these dogs are perfectly fine once they have company, even when it’s not yours) may be helpful. You could also contact your veterinarian for a stronger treatment plan, which may include desensitization training or medication use.
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