One of the most common complaints of pet parents is that their dogs are disruptive or destructive when left alone.
If your dog hates being left alone, they might have something that's commonly known as separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a result of a dog being very attached to one member of the family - most often their primary caregiver, i.e. one who feeds, walks, plays, and sleeps with them.
“In my experience, the four most common breeds of dogs that exhibit signs of separation anxiety are typically Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas (both mixed breeds and standards), German Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels”, says Dr.
Common causes include change in ownership, environment, or traumatic events. With the proper treatment for separation anxiety, such as desensitization, counterconditioning, and in some cases, medication, you can help alleviate symptoms of separation anxiety in your pooch.
Owners may be able to prevent the development of canine separation anxiety, but if their dog does develop separation anxiety, the problem may be reduced or eliminated through an owner-administered program of behavior modification,38 supplemented in the early stages with medication.
Time-line.
Expect to spend around two months working with your dog to alleviate his separation anxiety. Taking it slowly during the early stages–getting your dog comfortable at the moment of your departure–will allow the later stages of lengthening your time away to much more quickly.
Start small with separation
You can then move on to training your dog to sit and stay while moving progressively farther away; train them to lie down when you're out of sight and reward them when you come back. “Dogs and puppies with this condition need to learn to self-soothe when separated from their guardians.
#1 Vizsla. Known as the ultimate Velcro dog, this Hungarian breed is literally attached to their owner, and is happiest when right by your side. They were bred for falconry, and still have tons of energy, so this pup is best for people who enjoy active lifestyles.
Likewise, a dog suffering from separation anxiety would react every time she was left alone. Over a lifetime, these animals would suffer chronic repeated and uncontrolled stressful episodes. These factors could lead to decreased longevity in an individual under chronic stress.
There is no easy way to resolve the problem once Separation Anxiety has developed. It will not go away on its own, and most often a complete "cure" is never experienced.
A bored dog may become clingy because they don't have anything better to do. Interactive toys keep dogs mentally stimulated and encourage independent play. Create a special space. Set up a space with your dog's bed and favorite toys where your dog can go instead of following you around.
Gather some toys and treat to reward your dog for good behavior. A comfy bed, in an enclosed spot, with some new blankets can also work. Having somewhere comfy to relax can make being home alone more appealing for your dog. Further, make sure you praise them as well, as dogs respond very highly to it.
While a clingy dog's behavior can be rooted in emotional or physical distress, a clingy dog is insecure and wants care, support, and reassurance. While a clingy dog may be suffering from a behavioral problem, clinginess may also be an indicator of an equally serious underlying condition.
If your dog stays calm when following you around it's fine — it's a common behavior that many of us find flattering. But if your dog gets anxious when you get up it's a sign of separation anxiety. If your dog a a mild case of separation anxiety one thing that can help is giving them something to do when you leave.
These are the top 9 don'ts that we've heard over the years: Let the dog cry it out until he's 'used to it': This often makes the dog's aversion for being home alone a million times worse.
Perhaps instead of your dog sleeping in your bed, have his bed on the floor of your bedroom then outside of an open door, then outside of a closed door and so on & so on. You want Ralph to feel less anxious, and the goal is to get the dog's separation anxiety alleviated.
If he's a puppy then training may take a while. He will need you more and be less used to being left alone. You may need several weeks. Likewise, if he's older and always had you around then he may need up to six weeks to adjust.
Raised hackles are an undeniable physical sign of your dog's discomfort. Pacing: Your pet might walk back and forth nervously if feeling stressed. Shaking or trembling: This behavior is an obvious sign of dog stress. Whining, barking, or growling: Your pet will often “talk” to you when feeling uncomfortable.
Dogs with separation-related behavior problems engage in unwanted behavior such as destruction of property and excessive vocalization when left alone, causing distress for both the dog and the owner, and often leading to the dog being relinquished or euthanized.
Because dogs are social animals, receiving a lack of attention, or being left alone for long periods can affect their mental health. When dogs are confined to a crate or bathroom for extended hours, it can lead to depression. So allow your dog to spend as much time with family as possible.
They are often nicknamed 'velcro dogs' because of their tendency to stick beside their favored person. They desire lots of attention and dislike being left alone for long periods. The diligent Aussie likes to problem-solve and will find jobs to do around the home—often herding children or other pets.