Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety in dogs occurs when their owner or another significant figure in their life is gone for a period of time. Fortunately, separation anxiety can be treated with proper techniques and patience.

  1. Identification

    • Signs of separation anxiety include urinating and defecating due to stress, crying, howling or barking, digging, chewing and scratching.

    Considerations

    • It's important to distinguish the difference between boredom and separation anxiety. Dogs who are bored will chew anything in sight, whereas dogs suffering from separation anxiety will seek out and chew on an object they only recently touched prior to leaving.

    Reasons

    • Separation anxiety can occur for several reasons, including being left alone for the first time, getting placed in a boarding kennel or a shelter or a change in family structure or routine.

    Time Frame

    • According to the Humane Society of the United States, dogs suffering from separation anxiety will usually exhibit a mild to severe reaction within 20 to 45 minutes of the owner leaving.

    Solution

    • There are a variety of techniques that can help you relieve your dog's separation anxiety. Your veterinarian or dog behavioral specialist can help you assess your dog's level of severity and recommend the best way to approach the situation.