How to Treat Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Dogs love spending time with their owners, whether exploring outdoors or relaxing at home. This strong bond earns them the title of best friend. However, this need for companionship can lead to problems when they're left alone, potentially affecting their health. About 76% of dogs suffer from separation anxiety.

If your dog urinates, defecates indoors, chews belongings, or barks excessively when alone, these behaviours might indicate separation anxiety, not misbehaviour. Dogs with this condition become extremely distressed when left alone, often leading to property damage and self-injury. Monitoring your dog with cameras can help identify these symptoms, which usually appear within 10 minutes of being alone.

Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Several factors can trigger separation anxiety. Changes in the environment, such as moving house, can unsettle dogs. Significant alterations in routine, like a new work schedule, can also be a cause. Traumatic events, including time spent in shelters or previous abandonment, contribute significantly to anxiety.

Recognising the Symptoms of Dog Separation Anxiety

Symptoms of separation anxiety can range from mild to severe. Common behaviours include:

Specific Symptoms

1 - Peeing or Pooping in the House

Dogs may urinate or defecate indoors when left alone, even if they are house-trained. This behaviour is often a sign of distress rather than a lack of training. The anxiety caused by the owner's absence can disrupt the dog's usual bathroom habits, leading to accidents in the house.

2 - Destructive Chewing or Scratching

Dogs might chew furniture, shoes, or other objects and scratch doors and windows in an attempt to escape and find their owner. This behaviour can result in significant damage to your home and potential harm to your dog. It often occurs due to the dog's frustration and anxiety when left alone.

3 - Excessive Barking

Non-stop barking or howling is a frequent sign of distress. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark continuously, often starting soon after the owner leaves and continuing until they return. This behaviour can be particularly challenging in shared living environments, leading to complaints from neighbours.

4 - Anxious Actions

Pacing, drooling, and panting are common anxious behaviours in dogs with separation anxiety. These actions indicate that the dog is feeling highly stressed. Pacing typically involves the dog walking in a fixed pattern, while drooling and panting occur due to heightened anxiety levels.

5 - Not Eating

Some dogs may refuse to eat when their owner is absent. This lack of appetite can be a significant indicator of separation anxiety, as the dog is too anxious to focus on eating. It’s important to monitor your dog's eating habits to identify any changes related to anxiety.

6 - Clinginess

Following the owner around excessively and becoming distressed when the owner prepares to leave are signs of clinginess. Dogs with separation anxiety often become overly attached to their owners and show extreme distress at the signs of their departure, such as picking up keys or putting on a coat.

7 - Escape Attempts

Attempts to escape from rooms or crates can lead to self-injury. Dogs may try to dig or chew through doors and windows or break out of their crates, which can result in broken teeth, damaged paws, and other injuries. This behaviour is a desperate attempt to reunite with their owner.

Effective Treatments for Dog Separation Anxiety

Treating separation anxiety involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual dog.

1 - Early Socialisation

Early socialisation and training can help prevent separation anxiety by teaching dogs to be comfortable when alone.

2 - Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity helps reduce anxiety by burning off excess energy and promoting relaxation.

3 - Counter-Conditioning

Counter-conditioning involves associating being alone with positive experiences, such as giving treats or toys.

4 - Interactive Toys and Entertainment

Providing toys and puzzles can keep dogs occupied and mentally stimulated when alone.

5 - Desensitisation Training

Gradual exposure to being alone, starting with short periods and slowly increasing the time, helps dogs adjust.

6 - Adjusting Leaving Routine

Changing departure routines to reduce anxiety triggers, such as not making a big deal out of leaving or returning home.

7 - Background Noise and Music

Playing music or white noise can soothe dogs and provide a sense of company.

8 - Crate Training

Crate training can provide a safe and secure space for dogs when done correctly, helping them feel more comfortable when alone.

9 - Dog Walkers and Day Care

Hiring a dog walker or using dog daycare services can provide socialisation and reduce the time your dog spends alone.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If your dog's anxiety is severe, it might be necessary to seek professional help. Vets can prescribe medication or recommend behavioural therapy to manage anxiety effectively.

Helping Your Dog Thrive

Addressing separation anxiety in dogs requires patience and a combination of strategies. With the right approach, it's possible to reduce your dog's anxiety and improve their overall well-being. Consider pet insurance to help manage potential veterinary costs associated with treating separation anxiety.

By following these guidelines, you can help your dog feel more secure and comfortable, even when you're not home.

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