Does your dog have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a clinical term used to describe the emotional state a dog experiences when left alone longer than they are comfortable. It isn’t simply the dog behaving badly but it is a form of panic attack. Dogs with separation anxiety experience fear, anxiety and stress when their guardian leaves them. A dog with isolation distress on the other hand can be left with any human but panics when left alone. Confinement distress is what a dog experiences when crated or confined to a small area. 

So why is your dog behaving this way? This type of anxiety could have different root causes. Your dog could have suffered a traumatic event or have a noise phobia. Many adopted dogs experience fear, anxiety and stress from the uncertainty of being rehomed or spending time confined in the shelter. It could be caused by a sudden schedule change or simply never teaching the dog how to be alone. Regardless of the cause, the first step is to determine if your dog has separation anxiety or is the behavior caused by boredom, lack of exercise or housebreaking issues. Sometimes, a new dog may just be having trouble acclimating to a new home and schedule. 

For a dog with separation anxiety, it is important to understand that the dog is not simply being “naughty” or stubborn. They are not angry or trying to get even with you for leaving them behind and they won’t “just get over it.” Above all, you the guardian, did not cause the behavior by giving your dog too much attention, loving them too much, or by letting them be the boss.

Following popular advice from friends who recommend adopting another dog, leaving music on (may be helpful for noise phobia), leaving a food puzzle, stuffed Kong toy, or taking up jogging, won’t fix the problem. Although some of these suggestions may be good to keep any dog from boredom, many dogs with separation anxiety won’t eat when alone or still suffer after the food runs out.

What has been proven to help is addressing the underlying issue through behavior modification with a trainer who is experienced helping dogs with separation anxiety. It may also be important to work with your vet or a veterinarian behaviorist for appropriate medications. A good plan always starts with an initial assessment to determine when the dog begins to show fear, anxiety, or stress and then keeping the dog below this stress threshold as desensitization takes place. Video, taking good notes, and a solid plan are essential. 

Working with separation anxiety takes patience and perseverance. There isn’t a specific timeline and usually many peaks and valleys in the process. The important thing to know is that help is out there. Here at Darn Good Dogs Chicago, we can help by pointing you in the right direction for the support you need for success. We are here to help you find the best resources and solutions to help your dog live their best life!