Adult Dogs and Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is the second most common reason why dogs are given away or euthanized, according to the Dog Breed Info website. This type of anxiety can occur in dogs of any age.

  1. Symptoms

    • Pet Place explains that dogs with separation anxiety exhibit many different unacceptable behaviors. Many dogs dig, claw and chew at doors and windows in a frantic attempt to get out of the house and find their owners. Some dogs howl and bark, while others dig in the garbage, urinate or defecate in the house or tear up furniture and clothing.

    Causes

    • Some dogs are excessively dependent upon their owners, particularly if the owner is overly nurturing or indulgent. Other dogs are under the impression that they, not the owners, are the pack leaders, and they become frantically worried whenever a member of their protected pack leaves. Some senior dogs become upset because they can no longer deal with changes in routine, according to Pet Education.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Desensitize the dog to departures by leaving for a minute or two, coming back in and offering the dog a treat. Do not make a production about leaving and returning. Treat departures like they are routine. Finally, crate the dog during absences.