Does My Dog Have Separation Anxiety?
Your dog loves you so much and wants to be with you all the time. But we all know that’s not possible. Between work, school, friends, family, and other commitments we may have, we humans live busy lives and our dog can’t always come with us where we are going. Sometimes, for our furry friends, our coming and going to lead to stress or even separation anxiety.
Here are the signs of separation anxiety in dogs and what you can do to make your pup feel more comfortable.
Signs Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety
There are many signs of separation anxiety. If your dog exhibits one or two of these behaviors, it may not be something to worry about. However, if your dog is showing signs of multiple of these signs on a regular basis, it may be something to talk to your vet about.
- Whining, pacing, or trembling
- Drooling or panting
- Peeing in the house
- Excessive barking or howling
- Chewing, scratching, digging, ripping this apart, and other destructive behavior
- Escape attempts
- Not eating their food or treats
How to Manage Dog Separation Anxiety
While a great place to start would be to contact your vet, there are also things you can do at home to try and ease some of your four-legged friend’s anxiety.
Calm Exits/Entrances
When you are coming and going from your home, just say a simple goodbye, hello, or even ignore your dog. Big, emotional greetings tell your dog it is a big deal that you are leaving or returning.
Come and Go Frequently
You can help your dog learn that you are not abandoning them by getting them used to you coming and going. Try practicing leaving your home for short trips and see how your dog reacts. If they get anxious instantly when they see you are about to leave, try just picking up your keys, putting your shoes on, and walking out the door only to come right back in.
Get Some Exercise
If your dog is getting plenty of exercise, they will be overall happier and healthier. If you are planning on leaving for an extended period of time, take your dog on a long walk or play a good game of fetch before you go. Sit Means Sit wants your dog happy and healthy!
Make it Fun to be Alone
Give your dog a special toy or treat that they can only have when you aren’t home. This could be their favorite toy or peanut butter-filled Kong. This way they will know that they get something they love when you leave.
Check out this article for more ideas on toys to help ease your dog’s separation anxiety!
There are many ways to treat your dog’s separation anxiety, so be patient and try out a few different methods to see what works for your pup.
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