Separation anxiety can be very harmful to your dog
Separation anxiety can be triggered by many different situations, usually involving change. For example, being left alone when accustomed to having people around, a change in ownership, moving from a shelter to a home, a change in family routine, or the loss of a family member, among others.
Regardless of the cause, negative behaviors can become very obvious. Common destructive actions include wreaking havoc in your living room by shredding pictures and pillows, as seen in viral videos. Additional stress indicators are panting, drooling, excessive barking, growling, and urinating or defecating indoors. Recognizing these behavioral patterns is essential, as it helps you differentiate between separation anxiety and poor house manners or disobedience in your puppy.
Solutions for Dog Separation Anxiety
There are anti-anxiety supplements that may help soothe your pet’s anxiety: chamomile flower powder, ginger root powder, passion flower powder, and L-Tryptophan. There are many types of L-Tryptophan available. CBD may also be beneficial in these cases. Learn more about “CBD for Dogs” in our previous article.
Prevent dog separation anxiety with these methods
To prevent your home from total destruction, one method is to teach your pet to enjoy, or at least tolerate, being alone. For example, in milder cases, before you leave, give them a puzzle toy filled with food (like a KONG) to keep them engaged and distract them from your departure. Additionally, if frozen, the treat can keep your pet occupied for a longer time. If possible, hide the puzzle toy to make the game even more enjoyable. When you return, remove these highly desired toys so your pet looks forward to this treat next time you leave. This helps create a positive association with your departure, rather than feelings of anxiety and loneliness.
You can also try to make your departure less stressful by gradually increasing your time away. Additionally, engaging in interactive activities with your dog before leaving, such as tug of war, fetch, or a walk, can be helpful. If these strategies do not work, it is best to seek professional help. For example, consider hiring a certified dog trainer. You may also find it helpful to hire a professional pet sitter to care for your dog while you are away. Whatever option you choose, avoid scolding them for their behavior. They are already stressed, and scolding will only exacerbate the situation. As always, take a deep breath, stay positive, and consider keeping your favorite pillows and pictures out of reach.
