Do you ever come home to find that your dog has created a mess while you were gone? Fido may have gone into the trash, chewed your shoes, or eaten a couch cushion. It’s tempting to dismiss these breaches as bad conduct, but they’re frequently a symptom of something far more complex: separation anxiety. Continue reading to learn more about this common dog problem from a local Fernley, NV vet.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

The word separation anxiety is a helpful indicator in this instance. This is a highly specific sort of anxiety that depicts the discomfort and distress that many pets experience while separated from their owners. Dogs are hardwired to function as part of a pack, and they might become anxious when left alone.

Do Cats Experience Separation Anxiety?

Yes! Cats can also experience separation anxiety. While we may mock fluffy for being cold and aloof, cats are actually quite emotional and develop strong attachments to their owners. When we are removed from our feline companions, they may experience distress.

What Are The Signs Of Separation Anxiety?

Fido can’t tell you how he feels, but his actions and manner will give you a pretty good idea. As previously said, one of the unmistakable symptoms is if your dog left a mess while you are away.

However, this is not the only hint to look for. Here are a few other red flags:

·       Barking

·       Howling

·       House soiling

·       Restlessness

·       Digging

·       Chewing

·       Panting

·       Pacing

·       Lip licking

·       Destructive Behavior

Another indicator is if your dog is overly pleased to meet you. Dogs’ joyous dances to greet their people are adorable, but if Fido appears unusually jumpy when greeting you, he may be anxious. He may also follow you around, refusing to let you leave his sight.

How Do I Know If My Dog Has Separation Anxiety?

One of the most difficult aspects of separation anxiety is monitoring Fido’s behavior. The condition is most noticeable when canines are left at home alone, which of course means you won’t directly see how he copes when you’re out. If you feel your dog has separation anxiety, purchase a camera and record him.

How Do You Reduce Separation Anxiety In Dogs?

There are a few things you can do to assist your dog cope. One thing that can be quite beneficial is making sure that your pet gets adequate exercise. If your canine pal has a lot of pent-up energy, he’ll be more likely to feel agitated and anxious. A good workout or play session can help him burn off that edge, much like a workout does for people.

Before leaving for work, take your pet for a vigorous walk. Or, even better, spend some time playing with him. Hopefully, your canine companion will be exhausted afterward and ready for a nap. That would be ideal, as he could sleep during much of your absence.

Entertainment is important here. Dogs might become unhappy due to boredom. Fido can become quite restless when he has nothing to do but look at the walls all day. Make sure your puppy has plenty of things to keep him entertained. Puzzle toys, Kong toys, long-lasting treats, dog TV, and smart toys are all options here. Your pooch may also enjoy a good view. If possible, provide a window-viewing area for your pet. He may enjoy watching for you, particularly as the time approaches for you to return home. Your pup may also like watching birds and squirrels, as well as creating noseprint art on your windows.

You’ll also need to provide entertainment options when you are home. Spend time playing with your pet and going on walks to explore new places together.

What Should I Not Do With An Anxious Dog?

Disciplining Fido for misbehaving while you are away is not going to help. In fact, it may even exacerbate the situation. Dogs don’t think like humans, and they don’t process information in the same manner we do. Your pet will not necessarily associate your reaction with his actions, especially after the fact. That might just make him more nervous. Concentrate on positive reinforcement.

You don’t want to go too far in the opposite direction. Don’t coddle Fido when you return home, and don’t make a big deal about arriving or leaving home. That’s merely rewarding him for behaving badly!

Which Dog Breeds Suffer From Separation Anxiety The Most?

Any dog can have separation anxiety. However, certain breeds are more prone to anxiety than others. Separation anxiety is especially common in Chihuahuas, Labradors, German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Jack Russell Terriers, And Bichon Frises.

Fido’s past also influences his behavior. Separation anxiety is also common among rehomed pets. Unfortunately, this is because many of them have been abandoned or simply separated from their previous owners. Our canine companions become quite close to their humans and can be traumatized when that link is broken. Shelter dogs frequently experience separation anxiety.

If your furry pal is extremely anxious, you may want to look into behavioral counseling. A professional assessment can be quite eye-opening and informative. Ask your Fernley, NV vet for more information. 

Schedule An Appointment At Our Fernley, NV Pet Hospital

Do you know or believe that your dog is experiencing separation anxiety? Please feel free to contact us at any time. We are your local Fernley, NV pet hospital and are here to help!