Separation anxiety and what you can do about it

By Dr Julie Summerfield

Some dogs become extremely distressed when they are separated from their owners, and suffer a condition similar to a panic attack. These dogs are usually well adjusted and non-fearful when the owner is present. This is known as Separation Anxiety.

Dogs are social animals and can suffer extreme fear if left alone away from the rest of their “pack“. This makes good sense for survival in the wild, but can cause major problems for your dog. Typical signs of anxiety include barking or howling, scratching at doorways or windows to escape and get to you, as well as trembling, drooling, urination & defecation and even vomiting from the sheer terror of being separated from you.

Dogs with separation anxiety usually are over dependent on their owners. They follow you everywhere throughout the house, and display overanxious greetings when reunited. It can be more of a problem if your dog hasn’t been left alone much as a pup, and worsened by traumatic experiences such as thunderstorms, fireworks.

Treatment of separation anxiety involves desensitisation to being left alone. This involves mock departures where you leave your dog alone for 1 minute and then return rewarding your dog with praise, but only returning when your dog is quiet and calm. The trick is to start off with very short times, returning before the distress sets in.

Gradually increase the time away, and get keys, coat, start the car and perform your usual leaving routine, because these are the cues that alert your dog to the fact you are leaving. Again come back soon enough to avoid distress, and then reward your dog for staying calm. Your dog associates these events with calmness, and gradually becomes used to you leaving.

Leave your dog in a safe area, and give him things to occupy himself, like toys, chews and bones so he learns that it can be fun to be alone. So he becomes more independent, give your dog his own bed, rather than sleeping with you, and try to avoid long emotional good-byes, this only makes the contrast worse when you’re gone.

You must be careful not to reinforce the anxiety by going back inside to soothe him when he’s crying or scratching. This only teaches him to do it more, as it results in you coming back! Behavioural therapy works on increasing independence, and getting the your dog more used to being alone.

Give your dog the regular attention that he craves, but on your terms, not at his demand. Always provide attention following good, calm behaviour. Do not use any form of punishment as this is guaranteed to worsen the anxiety.

Getting a second dog may help the situation, by reducing fear. Providing your dog with a friend to avoid total separation.

Anti anxiety medication may need to be prescribed if the condition is severe, in conjunction with behavioural therapy. Contact your local vet to discuss options including referral to a behavioural specialist for more intensive treatment.

Please note: This article was written in 2001. Dog training methods and ideas change frequently, please consult your vet or trainer to discuss whether this article would help your dog.

Separation anxiety and what you can do about it

Search