Are There Any Dog Separation Anxiety Solutions?
There are several types of anxieties that dogs experience – noise, travel, meeting new people/animals, and moving. And while all of these need to be treated seriously, separation anxiety in dogs seems to be on a whole different level.
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| Separation anxiety in dogs causes stress as well as bad behavior |
Not that it is any more or less severe than the anxieties listed above, but simply because in today’s world, separation lasts longer and is more frequent than the other problem areas. Whereas a dog scared of thunder might feel anxious for 15 minutes to a couple of hours, separation anxiety can last from 5 minutes to 10 hours!
We all feel separation anxiety at some time in our lives, but we eventually learn to not let it consume our lives. And most dogs do as well. There have not been any conducive studies that can give us a reason for separation anxiety in our dogs. There are many theories, such as abandonment or bad experiences while young, but no conclusive facts. And believe it or not, shelter dogs have been shown to be no more or less prone to separation anxiety than any other dog.
While we don’t know what causes dog separation anxiety, we definitely know it exists. Some dogs whine all day while you are gone. Others develop nervous habits such as habitual cleaning or scratching (anxiety itching), developing bald or raw areas, which can also cause dog hot spots. Others urinate or defecate. Still others destroy things. These are not actions to get our attention, but rather nervous reactions to their situation.
Are You Sure It Is Separation Anxiety?
If your dog is destroying things and chewing up everything it can, you may just have a case of boredom and/or excess energy on your hands. Try giving chew toys with treats inside that keep your dog’s mind focused while you are away. Also, make sure your dog is exercised before you leave, adding in some mental games while exercising is a double plus. Sometimes it is just a lot of pent up energy that gets your dog in trouble. If you don’t think it is boredom and/or too much energy, then you may be looking at separation anxiety.
But there are several dog separation anxiety solutions out there. You just need to try some to see which is the best fit for you and your dog.
Training
Probably the highest on the list to help with this particular anxiety disorder is training. And while this may be something you can do on your own, depending upon your dog’s severity, you may need to enlist the help of a qualified trainer (follow this link to find a certified dog trainer in your area). Training your dog to overcome separation anxiety will take time – a lot of time. It is a conditioning exercise that must be lengthened and repeated, but the results are definitely worth it!
Pressure Wraps
Pressure wraps are another way to help deal with separation anxiety and have been getting rave reviews. I have personally used them (thunder jacket for dogs) for one of my dog’s noise anxiety with great success! The pressure wraps use acupressure to help your dog feel calm and secure. The wrap does not constrict the use of the head, legs, or tail; it is more like a vest (in human terms).
Dog Appeasing Pheromone
DAP collar, diffuser, and spray are all ways to help your dog deal with separation anxiety issues. The pheromone excreted is a replicate of what a lactating mother dog releases. This pheromone gives your dog a feeling of being calm and secure. Since everything is new to a puppy, this pheromone helps them experience new situations without too much fear. Many pet owners will use a DAP collar and diffuser together to help their dog cope when they are away.
Whichever method(s) you choose, and you may have to use more than one, it is definitely worth it. This anxiety is destroying and consuming your pet’s life, and you hold the key!
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