Boost your dog’s confidence
Focus on building a positive self-perception in your dog through play and training that promotes independence. Reward calm behavior and avoid negative reinforcement.
MY DOG BARKS WHEN I LEAVE – SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS
What is separation anxiety in dogs?
Do you notice that your dog exhibits behavioral issues such as destructive behavior, excessive barking, or has your dog started to urinate indoors when you leave the home? These may be signs of separation anxiety, a condition that affects dogs of all breeds and ages. Here, we delve into the causes, symptoms, and effective methods to manage this challenge so you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a happy life together.
Symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs
Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest in many ways. Some dogs will bark, howl, whine, destroy doors, windows, or personal belongings by chewing and biting. Other symptoms include excessive drooling, vomiting, hyperventilation, or even indoor defecation and urination. These signs not only indicate stress and anxiety in your dog but also a deep need for comfort and security.
Causes of separation anxiety in dogs
Separation anxiety in dogs can be triggered by many factors, including genetic reasons, lack of early alone time, changes in daily routines such as new homes or family members, or even older dogs that develop dementia. Understanding these causes is the first step towards creating a safer environment for your dog.
Adjust expectations about companionship
It is important to balance your time with your dog. Teach your dog to be alone at home by gradually increasing alone time with positive reinforcement.
Introduce routines
Use visual or auditory cues to indicate when you are leaving home and when you return. This helps reduce your dog’s anxiety by making your departures and reunions predictable.
Consult your veterinarian
If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe, it may be necessary to seek professional help. There are treatment options, including medication and behavior therapy, that can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being.
FAQ
What should I do if my dog barks when I leave?
Can all dogs overcome separation anxiety?
My dog has started to urinate indoors.
What are the causes of separation anxiety in dogs?
Separation anxiety manifests through various types of problematic behavior when the dog is left alone at home. This can happen, for example, when the owner goes to work or just runs an errand outside the home. Studies show that separation anxiety can affect up to 17% of all dogs. Separation anxiety can have many causes. The dog may be genetically predisposed, or the problems may arise based on the dog’s experiences. It is important to understand that the dog’s behavior is not due to misbehavior or naughtiness. It is scared.
Sources:
Pegram, C., Gray, C., Packer, R. M., Richards, Y., Church, D. B., Brodbelt, D. C., & O’Neill, D. G. (2021). Proportion and risk factors for death by euthanasia in dogs in the UK. Scientific Reports, 11(1), 9145.
Salman, M. D., Hutchison, J., Ruch-Gallie, R., Kogan, L., New Jr, J. C., Kass, P. H., & Scarlett, J. M. (2000). Behavioral reasons for relinquishment of dogs and cats to 12 shelters. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 3(2), 93-106.
Bamberger M, Houpt KA. Signalment factors, comorbidity, and trends in behaviour diagnoses in dogs: 1,644 cases (1991-2001). JAVMA. 2006;229(10):1593
Tiira K, Sulkama S, Lohi H. Prevalence, comorbidity, and behavioral variation in canine anxiety. J Vet Behav. 2016;16:38.
