Why Do Some Dogs Develop Separation Anxiety?
There is no conclusive evidence showing exactly why dogs develop separation anxiety. However, because far more dogs who have been adopted from shelters have this behavior problem than those kept by a single family since puppyhood, it is believed that loss of an important person or group of people in a dog’s life can lead to separation anxiety. Other less dramatic changes can also trigger the disorder. The following is a list of situations that have been associated with development of separation anxiety.
Change of Guardian or Family Being abandoned, surrendered to a shelter or given to a new guardian or family can trigger the development of separation anxiety.
Change in Schedule An abrupt change in schedule in terms of when or how long a dog is left alone can trigger the development of separation anxiety. For example, if a dog’s guardian works from home and spends all day with his dog but then gets a new job that requires him to leave his dog alone for six or more hours at a time, the dog might develop separation anxiety because of that change.
Change in Residence Moving to a new residence can trigger the development of separation anxiety.
Change in Household Membership The sudden absence of a resident family member, either due to death or moving away, can trigger the development of separation anxiety.
If the Problem Is Mild â¦
No Touch, No Talk, No Eye Contact
Don’t make a big deal when you leave for the day or when you return. This way, you are communicating to your dog that the time apart is no big deal. It’s just business as usual! Depending on the severity of the dog’s anxiety, you may need to practice the rule for five minutes or up to an hour before you leave and when you get back.
Cesar Explains How To Fix Separation Anxiety With Your Dog
If your dog seems to worry when youre heading out, destroys stuff when you leave the house, follows you from room to room when youre home, goes berserk when you come back and seems to be eyeing you suspiciously even before you leave—you may be dealing with a case of separation anxiety.
Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit distress and behavior problems when theyre left alone. Some of the most common ways they do this:
Its not fully understood why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and others dont. But remember, your dogs behaviors are part of a panic response. Your dog isnt trying to punish you! They just want you to come home!