At Christmas time many of us spend more time away from home, whether it’s attending Christmas parties and catch-ups with friends or going away on holidays. While it’s a great time for us, many dogs struggle with being left at home alone more often, or staying in an unfamiliar place when their owners are away on holidays.
What is separation anxiety in dogs?
Separation anxiety occurs when a dog gets highly stressed when left alone or in an unfamiliar place without their owners. Dogs are a highly social species, so it’s not surprising that some struggle to cope without their family around. It’s not clear-cut why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and some don’t, as it can affect dogs of any breed or age.
What are the signs of separation anxiety?
Dogs with separation anxiety typically get stressed when they become aware that you are about the leave the house, or once you have left the house. These behaviours can include:
- Destructive behaviour, such as chewing your belongings or digging up the garden
- Increased barking, howling or whining when you leave the house
- Shaking or shivering
- Continual pacing
- Toileting accidents (when fully toilet trained)
- Persistent licking or chewing of feet, legs or tail
- Scratching at doors and windows in an attempt to get out of the house
- Loss of appetite
- In more serious cases, vomiting and/or diarrhoea
What can I do to help my dog?
It’s important not to ignore your dog’s anxiety and resultant symptoms. The earlier you can seek help the better, as behavioural issues can escalate if left untreated.
If your dog is displaying anxious behaviour, the first step is to consult with your vet to rule out any medical issues such as illness, disease or chronic pain that may be causing the above symptoms. Your vet will also discuss how you can help your dog feel calmer when left alone. These could include:
- Keep to a set routine when it comes to eating, exercise, bedtimes and when you leave and return from work
- Don’t make it a big deal when you leave for the day and when you return
- Exercise your dog in the morning
- Provide your dog with toys and puzzle feeders to keep them mentally stimulated
- Synthetic pheromones such as Adaptil
- Desensitisation training, such as picking up your keys or putting on your shoes and remaining in the house. Then advance to asking your dog to “stay” while going into another room and closing the door, gradually increasing the amount of time you stay apart
- Medication for dogs with more severe separation anxiety
We’re here to help
Separation anxiety can be just as stressful for pet owners as it is for dogs, but it doesn’t have to be something you both have to live with. Early intervention and proper training can help manage and alleviate separation anxiety in many cases.
If you are concerned that your dog may be displaying separation anxiety, please bring them in for a consultation so we can formulate a plan to get them back to their happy and calm self as soon as possible.
To schedule an appointment at our Loganholme vet clinic, call us on 07 3801 1744 or book online.