How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Your Dog
Many people who have pets are quite often away from home during the day due to appointments and work. In these situations, our pets tend to get the idea that when we leave we may not come back, and some will suffer from a condition called separation anxiety. This problem is very common among many pets but particularly so among dogs.
In nature, dogs live in packs. When dogs live with humans, they see their family as their pack. This can at times be a positive thing (when the dog see you as the master), or a negative thing when your dog believe he is the chief.
Dogs are very affectionate animals and in many cases they tend to worry when you are not around. They very commonly question if you will return at all when you leave – when they start to think in this way they get frantic, they might get angry and sometimes start getting destructive.
There are a number of reasons that separation anxiety can come about. Common reasons often include moving houses, the loss of a family member, or a change in your schedule. Dogs that have lived tough on the streets or have been through shelters are most likely to suffer separation anxiety – they constantly fear a return to the street. Dogs with separation anxiety are more likely to be unpredictable, and may even be aggressive at times.
A dog that suffers from separation anxiety may at times become very destructive, angry and even aggressive. Dog owners can sometimes return home to find here furniture and possession have been ripped to shreds. It’s also very common for dogs to use the entire house as a bathroom. These behaviors usually only get worse if nothing is done to fix the problem.
One of the most important things you can do for you dog when it is suffering from separation anxiety is to be patient and understanding of the condition. Never punish a dog if it has destroyed your belongings as this will only make the situation worse. Your dog will start to believe even more deeply that you don’t love him and that next time you leave you’ll be gone for good.
Patience and consistency are a couple of the most important ways to behave when teaching your dog to overcome separation anxiety. Try to learn new ways to calm your dog. One way you can do this is by just leaving the house for 2 minutes and then returning. Doing this several times will calm your dog as it will start to believe that you will in fact be returning.
By practicing the techniques mentioned above you will be able to teach your dog that even though you left, you came right back. Encouraging your dog to stay in his crate when you are not there may also provide some form of comfort and protection for your dog. Finally, make sure you reward your dog for good behavior. Praise goes a long way.