Toys for Dogs With Separation Anxiety

Dogs do not like being apart from their humans. In the wild, dogs live in packs, never separating, in order to survive. It is contrary to a dog's nature to be alone, but you can quell a dog's anxiety. With the appropriate behavior modification and some engaging toys to play with while you are away, the dog can learn to enjoy the time to itself without obsessing about your return.

  1. Hidden treats

    • There is a group of toys designed to hide kibble or treats inside, teasing the dog to use its problem-solving skills and determination to remove the prized food. Kong, Kibble Nibble and Buster Cube earned mention by the ASPCA as safe and appropriate toys for dogs with separation anxiety issues. In addition, your dog's daily meals can be given by using such toys instead of a bowl. If you continue to provide the dog with this kind of toy only when you leave, the dog will start to associate your period of absence with food--a positive connection which will help counter anxiety.

    Rope

    • Ropes made specifically for dog play are available at pet supply stores. A rope is an excellent focus object for a dog's chewing instinct, which is a relief for anxiety. Often, dogs will learn to toss the rope in the air, pull at the rope with its paws and play tug-of-war with any willing playmate. Be careful to cut any loose strings as they appear and to get rid of the rope when the knots have come undone or the dog has shredded it.

    Edible Chews

    • Edible chews, like those made by Nylabone, provide your dog another anxiety-relieving chewing outlet that gives it the tastes it loves. The "bones" are made out of vegetable starches and protein flavoring so it is truly edible and digestible without running the risk of splintering and perforation that can occur with real boiled bones. Positive associations with your temporary absence like a chew toy will help your dog learn to enjoy some playtime alone instead of obsessing over you.

    Ball

    • There is a ball for every dog's chewing habits. A dog who rarely or sometimes chews would probably enjoy a lightweight soccer ball, tennis ball or small rubber ball. Strong chewers can enjoy a Kong ball, made of dense rubber that gives without breaking when the dog chews. You might even find one day that the dog bats around the ball with its paw as if playing soccer or tossing it in the air only to catch it. Playing with the ball and chewing it will help the dog associate positive emotions with the time you are gone while giving it something to focus its energy on during that period. Both the positive play and the focus on something other than your absence will give the dog positive coping habits that will alleviate anxiety.