Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is an important issue because it is the second most common reason that dogs are euthanized or given up by their owners. Many dogs react to the stress created from being left alone by becoming destructive, barking continuously or eliminating in the house. Separation anxiety occurs in dogs of all ages and breeds. It is most commonly seen in dogs who have particularly close relationships with their owners and who are rarely left alone.

Attachment to the pack is a normal canine behavior that is necessary to a dog's survival. In domestic dogs this attachment becomes transferred to people. When deprived of their human "pack" or primary attachment figure some dogs become so frantic that they display a variety of severe and unacceptable behaviors. Most typically these behaviors include those mentioned above, however, generalized depression, diarrhea and self-mutilation can also occur in dogs who are extremely stressed.

The behaviors associated with separation anxiety follow a somewhat predictable course. Many dogs bark excessively when they are left alone. Some dogs continue barking for hours while others go on to choose another behavior when barking does not bring about their owners return. Many owners inadvertently reinforce increased vocalization by returning to console their unhappy pet.

Some dogs become very destructive when left alone. Their high level of stress causes them to dig, chew or scratch doors, rugs or household furnishings. An otherwise well trained dog will suddenly chew or shred anything left in its path in an attempt to find relief from the anxiety it feels from being left alone. It is very common for these episodes to also include urination and defecation in the house. Usually this occurs in well housebroken dogs and happens within minutes of their owner's departure, even if the dog has recently relieved itself.

There are several effective ways of correcting or at lease minimizing these objectionable behaviors. The first involves adopting a matter of fact and calm attitude when preparing to leave the house. Emotional and lengthy good-byes will only serve to heighten your dog's anxiety. Ignore any display of stress related behavior in your pet and reward only those behaviors that are desired and appropriate. You may need to change your routine to throw the dog off so he/she is not anticipating your departure.

Dogs who become destructive should not be given the opportunity to do so. Chew toys or rawhide strips can be provided for tension release. If possible, exercise your pet before your departure as this will encourage rest.

Discipline for dogs suffering from separation anxiety should consist of behavior modification (unpleasant consequence for objectionable behavior followed by reward for appropriate behavior). Ideally the goal for dogs suffering from separation anxiety should be anxiety reduction. When this is achieved the undesirable behaviors will automatically also be reduced. Sometimes the addition of another pet can be very helpful providing both companionship and distraction for dogs who are unhappy when they are alone. Other families have had some success with playing the radio or TV while they are out to provide pets with normal household sounds.

Frequent practice departures with rewards for appropriate behavior will help condition dogs to stay calm. As your dog becomes more comfortable with this you can gradually increase the time that your dog is alone.

Many cases of separation anxiety are misinterpreted. People often think that their dogs are being destructive or bad on purpose. It is helpful to learn that this behavior is sparked by instincts that are necessary to pack survival and cannot be considered spiteful. Punishing a dog who suffers from separation anxiety will only make things worse.

If your dog is having a problem being left alone, it is time to consult your REGAP volunteer. Professional advice will greatly improve your chances of successfully correcting this difficult behavior problem.