Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is often used as a blanket term to cover a number of behavioral problems whose root cause is anxiety when away from the owner. Problems can include destructiveness, chewing, barking, whining, howling, escaping from the house or yard, anxiety attacks, self-mutilation (“lick granuloma”), and housebreaking accidents. Since there is such a wide range of behaviors that fall under “separation anxiety,” it is generally diagnosed if the behaviors occur when the dog is alone AND if the dog also shows signs of duress immediately prior to the owner’s departure. Dogs that exhibit destructiveness without being concerned about the owner leaving might just be bored!
In addition, a dog that “goes crazy” jumping, whining, or howling when you return can also indicate a problem with separation anxiety.
Why does separation anxiety occur?
Separation anxiety is extremely common, and many dogs will suffer from some form of separation anxiety at some point in their lives. Separation anxiety often occurs when the dog’s social structure is upended, such as a change in ownership, although there seems to be a genetic component to separation anxiety as well. Lifestyle changes (a move, divorce, or new baby in the house) can also cause anxiety. Puppies to a certain degree almost always exhibit some kind of separation anxiety immediately upon being removed from their litter mates. In addition, late-onset separation anxiety can occur in older dogs that suddenly become very nervous when left by themselves.
How do I fix it?
The “cure” for separation anxiety is a complex one and requires a multi-pronged approach to treat. The goals in a separation anxiety treatment plan are to:
Reduce the dog’s attachment to you
Desensitize the dog to your departures and arrivals
Create a greater sense of stability for your dog.
Here are some simple steps to help your dog:
Crate-train your dog. Not only can crating a dog minimize destructiveness, it can can create a sense of control as well, allowing your dog to relax. However, make sure that your dog is used to the crate before attempting to leave the house.
Minimize effusive greetings. Many owners make a big deal about coming and going from the house, which can make both departures and arrivals emotionally charged events. When you return home, ignore your dog for at least five minutes before giving him or her any attention.
Create safety cues. When you leave the house, do so in a nonchalant, low-key way, always following the same routine. Get your keys and repeat the same words: “I’m leaving now.”
Desensitize your dog to comings and goings. As much as you can, go through the routine of leaving the house, and returning quickly without a fuss. Your goal here is to leave and return, leave and return, without the dog exhibiting behavioral problems, so start slow and work your way up.
Provide your dog with things to do while you’re gone as an outlet from his anxiety. Stuffed Kongs work well, as do edible chews like bully sticks. If your dog ignores food while you are gone, it is a signal that his anxiety is too high. Sometimes, providing your dog with “shreddable” objects (old stuffed animals purchased in bulk at thrift stores are most economical) can give your dog something to do when you’re gone, and usually it’s better to simply pick up the dismembered parts of old toys than your ripped-up shoes or carpet.
Teach your dog obedience or tricks to provide your dog with structure and a sense of control. Dogs that are trained with positive rewards often seem to exhibit higher self-esteem and enjoyment in their environment.
Provide plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a good dog. Get your dog out doing something (going to the dog park, running, games of fetch, even long walks) and he’ll be more settled around the house.
Consider anti-anxiety supplements or medication. Many trainers swear by Rescue Remedy (an oral supplement) or Comfort Zone (a plug-in scent dispenser) for alleviating symptoms of anxiety. For dogs with severe anxiety disorders, consult your vet to see if there is something that can be prescribed to help your dog cope more effectively with anxiety.
Reduce emotional dependence. For most owners, this is perhaps the hardest part of the program to follow. Try to let your dog engage with other people, take him to daycare for some time away from you, or send him for an overnight with a trusted relative. Creating independence for your dog is important, so develop opportunities for positive interactions with other people, dogs, and situations.