Dealing with Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety and hate being left alone for periods of time. A lot like us humans.
Signs that your dog may be suffering include:
- They act with signs of anxiety, depression or excitement to any preparations you make to leave the house.
- They consistently follow you from room to room when you are at home.
- When you arrive home they launch themselves at you with frantic greeting behaviour.
- When they are left alone, they bark, scratch, chew or eliminate around the house in their distress.
It is important to start training your dog to be alone early in their development.
Find your dog a comfortable area such as a crate or box, and make it their exclusive space (no kids and no adults). Allow them time to be alone in that space, and encourage them by leaving a toy or reward in their space and quietly disappearing, leaving them to their own devices. Gradually build up this period of isolation, starting with a few minutes leading to a period of a few hours.
Before you leave your dog alone, make sure they are well exercised (and hopefully a bit weary) and has been fed. Most dogs, like humans, can get a bit edgy without food and exercise!
It is also recommended to make your entrances and exits from your residence relatively low key.
Leaving the television or radio on can also help. Dora loves watching Dr Harry and the Dog Whisperer!
If all else fails, discuss the problem with your veterinarian.
