Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation Anxiety is a fear/anxiety-based behavior in dogs. They basically are afraid (anxious to the point of panic) about being left alone. In the dog world, they would typically be with their pack members 24/7, from the day they are born till the day they die. In our world, the reality is that dogs spend many hours alone, and sometimes don’t know how to cope with it. The majority of dogs are seriously under-stimulated, under-exercised, and very isolated. Dogs are extremely social creatures. They enjoy company and activity and require it for their mental well-being just as people do.

Separation Anxiety ranges from very mild cases, where the dog may be just a bit nervous when the owner is away but is able to cope—to the extremely severe case where the dog literally has a major panic attack when the owner leaves, and causes physical injury to himself. There is a wide range of behavior patterns in between these two extremes.

There are many problem behaviors that are red flags for Separation Anxiety. They can include, but are not limited to: shadowing owner, panting and pacing as owner is getting ready to leave the house, dilated pupils, drooling, excessive barking, destruction of property, destruction of exit points of house (window and door frames), urination & defecation in house, anorexia (dog refuses to eat anything while owner gone), breaking out of their crate, and self-mutilation. The dog is not doing these behaviors out of spite or revenge for leaving him alone. He is terrified to be alone and purely panics.

The treatment for Separation Anxiety has a history of great success. Depending on the severity, the treatment timeframes vary from a month for mild cases to several months, or even longer for very severe cases.

Puppies and newly adopted dogs are at greater risk for developing Separation Anxiety issues. Prevention is the key to many problems in life and this is no exception. There are very simple things owners can do with their puppy or dog to help prevent the onset of Separation Anxiety. We will work with owners to develop plans and routines to prevent or decrease Separation Anxiety.

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