Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Part 2

The previous blog gave an overview of separation anxiety in dogs and its possible cause. This blog will focus on how dogs display separation anxiety.

Presentation

Unwanted behavioral signs of separation anxiety are only seen when the owner is absent, or when the dog is prevented from being close to the owner (at night, for instance). Under such circumstances, a needy dog is in a high state of anxiety because she wants to be with her owner and is prevented from doing so. Dogs, like people, cannot stay in a high state of anxiety for long, and must do something to relieve the tension.

To reduce the tension, dogs may engage in destructive behavior, house soiling, and distress vocalization. Other signs may include a reduced activity level, depression, loss of appetite, ritualized pacing, aggression when the owner leaves (mouthing, growling, nipping, or body blocking), excessive grooming, diarrhea, vomiting, panting and salivation. Signs of over-attachment when the owner is home include excessive following behavior, anxious behaviors associated with signals that the owner is preparing to depart, and exuberant greetings.

Excessive chewing, digging and scratching tends to occur in areas near doors and windows (“barrier frustration”). Damage in such areas is virtually diagnostic of separation anxiety. These areas represent exit routes for the dog as it attempts to reunite herself with the owner or, at least, to escape the loneliness. If the dog is confined to a crate, or its movements are restricted by a gate, destruction is usually centered around the crate door or the gate itself. The dog may seriously injure itself during these escape attempts. Attempts to free itself from barriers may result in broken nails or teeth, a bloody mouth, or more extensive injuries from tearing through glass and wood. Dogs may also destroy property that carries the owner’s scent, such as bedding, furniture, clothing, or shoes.

Barking, howling and whining are other common signs of separation anxiety. Distress vocalization and active seeking behavior occur when many social animals are separated from their companions. Such distress vocalizations represent the dog’s attempt to reunite the social unit. Excessive vocalization may occur primarily at the time of the owner’s departure or may continue throughout the duration of the owner’s absence. Owners are often unaware that their dog is distressed by the departure and it is only when neighbors complain about the excessive barking or howling that they become aware that their dog has a separation problem.

Dogs with separation anxiety may become so distressed in their owners’ absence that they urinate or defecate in the house. When this occurs only in the owner’s absence, such “inappropriate” elimination is not indicative of a loss of house training but rather is a physiological response to the extreme distress the dog is experiencing from being alone. House soiling typically occurs within 30 minutes of the owner’s departure as the dog becomes more anxious.

The first step in treating separation anxiety is to break the cycle of anxiety. Every time a dog with separation anxiety becomes anxious when its owner leaves, the distress it feels is reinforced until it becomes absolutely frantic every time the dog is left alone.

The next blog will focus on treatment and behavior modification for separation anxiety in dogs.

Dog Separation Anxiety | Separation Anxiety Dog Blog

In a few days, I take my separation anxiety pooch back to his psychiatrist, er behavioralist.  I’m eager to hear what she thinks about Max since it’s been quite a while since they have seen each other.

Max has a new hobby, counter surfing.  Yup, when we leave him home alone, he surfs the kitchen counters.  You’d think we weren’t feeding the dog. 

Last week he pulled the entire fruit basket down to the floor.  Mind you, this fruit basket was tucked back into a corner and on top of some other stuff.  It was not easy for my four-legged friend to reach.  But he did reach the fruit basket.  Then he spread it’s contents throughout several rooms and devoured all of the apples.  The orange was not as popular; it only sustained a few bite marks.

Today when I left home, I made sure there was nothing resembling food out.  So instead, he took my daughters antibiotic.  It was a powder with mixing instructions.  He tore a hole in the instructions but could not open thechild proof, er, I mean, dog proof cap.  Luckily, the antibiotics are fine.

I’ll let you know how the dog behavioralist appointment goes. I’m thankful to have a great dog behavioralist verteriarin nearby in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Separation anxiety and rescue dogs

Probably the most frequent cause for rescued dogs being returned after an unsuccessful placement is separation anxiety. This is one reason why we are usually strict about not rehoming to owners who will need to leave their dogs for very long periods. Many rescue dogs are very anxious that their new owner will disappear and not return — after all their previous owner did just that from the dog’s point of view. However all of us need to be able to go out sometimes on errands where we can’t be accompanied by our pets, so new owners need to be forewarned that this may be a problem and prepared to take action to cope.

One useful tool is a dog crate. This should not degenerate into a prison where your dog is locked up for hours on end, but it does provide a way to keep him safe and your posessions undamaged, while you train him to be less anxious. Properly used, the crate will become a den area where your dog feels secure; knows you will return; can rest comfortably and knows he will have some special toys that he does not have access to anywhere else. If distress at being separated from you causes your dog’s house-training to be erratic, a crate lined with newspapers and standing on a washable floor will make cleaning up not too unpleasant.

There is some advice about training to relieve separation anxiety on the dog club site. It may also help (preferably before you acquire your rescue dog) to read some of the books which have been written about adopting a rescue dog, such as Understanding the Rescue Dog, Living with a rescued dog, or Second Chance: living with a rescued dog.

Dogs & Separation Anxiety

Dogs are the happiest when they are with their best pal-you.  Often people treat the symptoms of separation anxiety without understanding what this causing the behavior and fixing it at the root of the problem.

This article from the Humane Society addresses ways to help you help your dog.

Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit distress and behavior problems when they’re left alone. The most common behaviors include:

• Digging and scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to reunite with their owners

• Destructive chewing


• Howling, barking, and whining


• Urination and defecation (even with otherwise housetrained dogs)

Is it separation anxiety?

If most, or all, of the following statements are true about your dog, he may have a separation anxiety problem:

• The behavior occurs primarily when he’s left alone and typically begins soon after you leave.


• He follows you from room to room whenever you’re home.


• He displays effusive, frantic greeting behaviors.


• The behavior occurs whether he’s left alone for short or long periods.


• He reacts with excitement, depression, or anxiety to your preparations to leave the house.

What causes separation anxiety

It’s not fully understood why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and others don’t. But it’s important to realize that the destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety are part of a panic response. Your dog isn’t trying to punish you for leaving him alone.

Following are some common scenarios that can trigger separation anxiety:

• A dog accustomed to constant human companionship is left alone for the first time.


• A dog suffers a traumatic event (from his viewpoint), such as time at a shelter or boarding kennel.


• There’s a change in the family’s routine or structure or the loss of a family member or other pet.

How to treat minor separation anxiety

• Don’t make a big deal out of arrivals and departures. For example, when you arrive home, ignore your dog for the first few minutes then calmly pet him.
  Leave your dog with an article of clothing that smells like you, such as an old T-shirt that you’ve slept in recently.


• Establish a safety cue—a word or action that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you’ll be back.


• Consider using an over-the-counter calming product that may reduce fearfulness in dogs.

How to handle a more severe problem

Use the techniques outlined above along with desensitization training. Teach your dog the sit-stay and down-stay commands using positive reinforcement. This training will help him learn that he can remain calmly and happily in one place while you go to another room.

Create a “safe place” to limit your dog’s ability to be destructive. A safe place should:

• Confine loosely rather than strictly (a room with a window and distractions rather than total isolation)


• Contain busy toys for distraction


• Have dirty laundry to lend a calming olfactory cue or other safety cues.

What to do in the meantime

It can take time for your dog to unlearn his panic response to your departures. To help you and your dog cope in the short term, consider the following interim solutions:

• Ask your veterinarian about drug therapy. A good anti-anxiety drug shouldn’t sedate your dog but simply reduce his overall anxiety.


• Take your dog to a doggie day care facility or kennel when you have to be away.


• Leave your dog with a friend, family member, or neighbor when you’re away.


• Take your dog to work with you, if possible.

What won’t help

• 
  Punishment. Punishment isn’t effective for treating separation anxiety and can make the situation worse. The destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety aren’t your dog’s revenge for being left alone: they’re part of a panic response.


• 
  Another dog. Getting your dog a companion usually doesn’t help an anxious dog because his anxiety is the result of his separation from you, not just the result of being alone.


• 
  Crating. Your dog will still engage in anxiety responses inside a crate, and he may urinate, defecate, howl, or even injure himself in an attempt to escape. Instead, create other kinds of “safe places” as described above.


• 
  Radio/TV noise. Leaving the radio or television on won’t help (unless the radio or TV is used as a safety cue).


• 
  Obedience training. While formal training is always a good idea, separation anxiety isn’t the result of disobedience or lack of training; therefore, it won’t help this particular issue.

The Thundershirt helps dogs with separation anxiety by gently swaddling them.  Learn more about Thundershirt.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety, it"s More than Dog Problem Behavior

Well, I’ve been lucky so far.  I never had to leave Max behind.  Since we adopted him, my parents have always been our back-up caregivers.  However, we’ve run into a scheduling snag.  What to do with the dog when we leave town?

If you have a dog with severe separation anxiety, you know how limited your choices are when you’re not home.  I can’t hire a petsitter unless they’re willing to stay with Max nearly 24/7.  Maybe, just maybe, they could slip out late at night but otherwise, they’re stuck.  With Max, he can’t be left for anything near 8 hours. 

Cages freak him out.  Plus, I know they won’t contain him; he’s broken out of padlocked cages.  So most boarding options are out.  However, I found a cagelessdoggie day care that offers cageless overnight boarding too.

Max tried his first day of doggie day care to see if the overnight care will work out.  With his wonderful temperament, I wasn’t too worried.  On his first day of doggie day care he followed the workers around with a big smile on his face.  Plus, as a bonus, he came home really exhausted.  He was too tired to be anxious at home.  It was like a mini-vacation for me.  I wasn’t tripping over an 80 pound dog for once.

One more doggie day care visit and then he can participate in the overnight program.  Fingers crossed!

Dog who used to destroy house is happy to stay home alone (with food)

Does my previous service dog, Max, look happy in this photo?  You bet he does!  He’s happy because he is about to stay home alone.

This wasn’t always the case.  Max used to destroy our house when he was home alone.  He’d go into such a panic that he’s ruined floors, walls, doors, door handles, etc. 

Max was a service dog and he was with people ALL the time.   When we adopted him, he totally freaked out when we left him home alone.  We were totally unprepared but if your pet has this separation anxiety problem, there is hope.

Today, Max is smiling and tail-wagging when he sees that I’m about to leave him home.  One of the biggest contributors to the transition is food.  Yes, food plays a major part in management of this dog’s separation anxiety. 

Our dog Max rarely is fed when we are home with him.  If he is fed, Max is getting his food out of a toy that makes him work.  The bulk of Max’s food, and especially yummy food, is delivered to him as we are walking out the door.  He’s been conditioned to expect that food time comes when he’s home alone.  And it works!

So what’s that in the photo you ask?  Well, Max has gotten so good at manipulating his food that we’ve upped the challenge.  Earlier, as Max’s separation anxiety improved, I started freezing food in Kongs for him.  Now, I also freeze the Kong so Max has a block of ice to work with too.  This was especially handy in the summer as I knew he’d enjoy the ice. 

Time to run, Max will soon be nudging me to the door so he can stay home alone!

Max visited my parents’ 10 acre home this past weekend.  He had fun but man did he stink when it was time to put him in the car to go home.  He romped in the wet lands and was covered with swamp sludge.  The muck really smelled awful.  We washed and washed and washed Max.  However, the DAP collar went in the trash.  It’s useless once it gets wet so we really couldn’t clean it. 

Max was such a pain until we put his new collar on him.  He followed me so much that he tripped me at least five times.  I have trouble getting the collar on so I had to wait patiently until my husband did it.  In the meantime, it was just me and my shadow – and, me falling over my shadow. 

When it comes to owning a dog with severe separation anxiety, I just cannot say how much the dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) collar helps keep us all sane!

Dog Appeasing Pheromone fights Separation Anxiety

My husband indicated that Max was not emptying his Kongs full of yummy food when he left Max home alone.  How strange.  Our dog rarely gets fed when we’re home so he should be good and hungry when we’re gone.

Plus, who ever heard of a Lab that leaves food unattended?  If you think this situation sounds strange, you’re right.  Unless Max’s magical treatment mix for severe separation anxiety is out of whack, this situation makes no sense.

Upon further investigation I noticed that we forgot to change Max’s DAP collar last month.  A few days later, and with the new collar firmly in place, Max is back to normal.  This oops really affirms that the phernomes in the DAP collar work to help control Max’s separation anxiety.

Now, I’m happy to report that once again, Max cannot wait for me to leave him home alone.  No, I don’t think it’s that he’s basking in the peace and quiet of ‘alone time’ as I would.  He’s just relaxed enough to enjoy his Kong full of food.  And when Max is relaxed, I feel better too.  We’ve come a long, long way.

It’s been a busy past few months.  Running a business and orchestrating family activities has left little time for writing.  I pledge to return.  Thank you for your patience.

Yippy, when I took my extreme-case-of-separation0-anxiety dog to the behaviorist vet, she said he looks great.  While it does not appear Max will go off his anxiety medication any time soon,  he’s doing well.  While weaning my nine year old dog off the anxiety meds would be ideal, it’s not mandator-whew!  I like that the pressure is off.  We can continue in this never gone for more than 4 hours at a time existence.  Good thing I work from home or I don’t know how I’d handle the dog that can’t stand to be home alone.  I’m feeling thankful today!

In a few days, I take my separation anxiety pooch back to his psychiatrist, er behavioralist.  I’m eager to hear what she thinks about Max since it’s been quite a while since they have seen each other.

Max has a new hobby, counter surfing.  Yup, when we leave him home alone, he surfs the kitchen counters.  You’d think we weren’t feeding the dog. 

Last week he pulled the entire fruit basket down to the floor.  Mind you, this fruit basket was tucked back into a corner and on top of some other stuff.  It was not easy for my four-legged friend to reach.  But he did reach the fruit basket.  Then he spread it’s contents throughout several rooms and devoured all of the apples.  The orange was not as popular; it only sustained a few bite marks.

Today when I left home, I made sure there was nothing resembling food out.  So instead, he took my daughters antibiotic.  It was a powder with mixing instructions.  He tore a hole in the instructions but could not open thechild proof, er, I mean, dog proof cap.  Luckily, the antibiotics are fine.

I’ll let you know how the dog behavioralist appointment goes. I’m thankful to have a great dog behavioralist verteriarin nearby in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

A week ago, I was complaining about the cold weather.  One day it was finally warm enough to leave Max out in the garage when I left him home alone.  Max and I were very excited.  He couldn’t wait to get to his really messy Kong filled with mac and cheese or spaghetti.

Oh, what a big mistake that was!  I didn’t think about all the sloppy slush that was melting off my cars.  The garage floor was quite messy.  Unfortunately my highly trained, service dog, decided to lay down in the slop and get busy with his food.  Did my intelligent dog lay on the bed I’d left for him?  Apparently not!  He was covered in dirt upon my return.  Unfortunately, I hadn’t really planned a dog bath in my day.  But, if I was to let Max into the house, a bath was mandatory. 

It was not pleasant but Max emerged a much cleaner dog.  And now, I’m going to watch what I wish for or I’ll be washing more mush off my mutt.

Baby, it’s cold outside. 

I’m in Michigan and it’s been cold for too long.  Are you remembering to keep your dog warm if you’re in a cold environment like me?

 

Dogs don’t get cold – wrong

Some people think just because dogs have fur, they don’t get cold.  No way!  Their paws are so sensitive.  Just like people, they can’t be outside for long in bitter cold unless a lot of precautions are taken.

 

Max hasn’t been getting enough walks lately.  With dangerous wind chills and icy streets, it’s been a challenge.  We need to do better.  He needs to get out.  Any ideas for how to stay motivated?

Our retired service dog, Max, loves the snow.  This very serious dog seems to find his inner puppy when he’s in the snow.  He is liberated; he’s free to succumb to his natural dog instincts.  He jumps, he frolics, he buries his head in the snow, and he rolls on his back like a maniac.  It is delightful to watch this dog play with such reckless abandon. 

 

Maybe this snow play seems so enjoyable since our retired service dog has been taught only recently how to play.  This “working dog” has not adjusted easily to the life of a retiree.  This new relaxed lifestyle is foreign and uncomfortable to our working dog.   

 

Max has come a long way.  It is a treasure to watch; especially when he’s romping in the snow alongside a child.  They belong together, playing in the snow.  Even though adopting a service dog is a challenge, when I watch Max and the kids play together, it’s worth it.

 

Since he was trained for interaction with blind people, Max was trained to show joy by opening his mouth (a smile perhaps or better yet, a very toothy grin).  He was also taught that playing involves rolling around on the ground.  Being a service dog for a blind person, he thinks every time someone lies down in the snow, they are ready to play with him.  This has been interesting. 

 

Considering Max outweighs two of my kids, he can knock them down in a heartbeat, especially on the slippery footing of snow. So, even a year and a half after we adopted our service dog, we’re still learning how to interact.   I’m just thankful he feels part of the family.

 

We all went sledding today.  I’m not sure who loved the snow more, Max or the kids.  All that matters is that it was a blast.  We all loved the snow day!

How to Break a Dog of Separation Anxiety

A dog with separation anxiety can act out in many ways. Some dogs will urinate or defecate while others chew on furniture or other things around the house. Excessive barking or howling and trying to escape are also signs of separation anxiety. Aside from the destruction this causes to the home, it can also result in injury to the dog. Separation anxiety sometimes starts as soon as the dog picks up the clues that it’s owner is getting ready to leave and accelerates once it’s alone.

Instructions

1


Visit the veterinarian to make sure there are no underlying health problems that may be causing the behavior. Digestive or urinary issues should be ruled out if these problems seem to surface when the dog is left alone.




2





Give the dog a housebreaking refresher. Make sure the dog knows where it is appropriate to relieve itself and let him know when he does it correctly by showing positive reinforcement. Pet the dog and tell them they were good in a calm and positive tone.




3





Check to see if the dog is teething. In younger dogs teething could be the reason they are destroying furniture or other things in the home when left alone. If this is the issue, leave the dog with chew toys or a Kong to keep them occupied while they are alone. A Kong is a dog toy that can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter. Give the dog this special toy or treat only when they are being left alone. This way it will associate being left alone with a treat instead of fear or anxiety.




4





Desensitize the dog to being alone. Make sure the dog has a comfortable environment. It should have its own bed or blanket. Also, giving the dog an article of your clothing such as an old t-shirt that has your scent on it may offer some comfort when it’s alone. Make sure this is something you no longer care about in case the dog destroys it. Leave for short periods of time so the dog can understand you’re coming back. Gradually increase the time so it can slowly get used to being alone.




5





Vary your routine when getting ready to leave the house. If the dog sees you getting your coat and keys and starts to get agitated because it knows that you are leaving, change your routine. “…Many individuals consider that it is essential to get dog training tips preceding to acquiring their pets. Some individuals could find this interesting but a lot of people may recognize that this is a great tip to follow. The problem with a number of pet owners is they will get a dog and then find out that they are simply not suitable to take care of them. Ultimately, they would depart their pets in order to reestablish their past lives. These dog training tips can let people know what they have to handle and if they have the time to coach their dogs. These suggestions could be found on Secrets To Dog Training. By using the time to conduct correct dog training, you will delight in a lifetime of peaceful friendship with your “…. Put your coat or briefcase in a different place or leave by a different door.




6





Leave a radio on so the dog is less likely to hear outside noises that may stress or frighten them. Be sure to tune it to a station that has soothing music to help the dog relax.




7





Exercise your dog. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. This can go a long way in calming separation anxiety. A dog that is well exercised is more likely to rest or sleep when left alone. Taking the dog for a walk or jog or just throwing a ball around can use up some of its energy before you leave the house.




8





Adopt a friend. Some dogs do better if they have another dog companion. This is a big decision and one that you should consider carefully before deciding to bring another dog into your household.

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Separation Anxiety in Dogs Part 1

Separation Anxiety in Dogs Part 1

Posted June 14th, 2012 by Ritzy

Tagged and categorized as: Calming For Dogs
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SEPARATION ANXIETY

Though we previously addressed this topic in an earlier blog post, it is an issue that continuously plagues dog owners with a solution that seems to remain elusive. Not only do dogs experience distress when separated from their owners but the anxiety is easily transferred to the owner. We as dog owners feel terrible when leaving Fido. We are also forced to suffer through the frustrating side effects of separation anxiety, which can include, but is not limited to, chewed up furniture, relentless barking, digging and soiled household floors or furniture. This makes leaving your house a stressful time for you, as visions of torn carpet and shredded pillows dance in your head. Read on for tips to help solve this aggravating problem.

Photo Courtesy of cogdogblog

Confinement Isn’t Bad
Start by designating an area for your dog to hang out when you are gone, whether it is a crate, the kitchen, or an upstairs bedroom. Periodically confine your dog to this spot while you are home for 30 minutes, then an hour at a time. This ensures that your dog will not associate your absence with being isolated in this designated area and gives you the opportunity to check-in on your dog and observe his or her behavior. When your dog is being quiet and non-disruptive, reward your fuzzy friend with a tasty treat.

Treats and Toys Are Good!

It is essential to place your dog’s favorite toys and engaging, yet safe treats like a Kong filled with kibble in your dog’s confinement area when you leave the house. These pleasant items will keep your pup happy and occupied. Alone time can evolve into a special time of rest, relaxation, yummy snacks, and chew toy playtime that your dog will grow to appreciate.

Make Your Exits and Entrances Casual

Photo Courtesy of Cast A Line

When you leave the house, don’t make a scene. Exit as serenely as possible when your dog is engaged in their chew toy or nibbling the kibble from their Kong. It may further help to take your dog on a walk before leaving so they are tired and more likely to relax in their confinement area. When coming back home, it is important to remember to remain calm and placid so as not to over-excite your dog. You don’t want your dog to associate your returns with party time because your dog will only dread your absence more. When you first enter your house, ignore your dog and wait to give him or her attention until they have calmed down. If your dog grabs a chew toy and occupies him or herself, that behavior should also be rewarded. Your dog is displaying independence. At that point you can acknowledge your pup and let him or her out of their crate or whatever room they have been confined to.

Patience is Key

Remember to never scold or physically harm your dog for exhibiting signs of anxiety. Instead, reward your dog when he or she displays calm behavior and shows signs of independence. If you want to avoid the situation altogether, consider bringing your dog to Morris K9 Campus for doggie daycare where your dog will be surrounded by people and other dogs throughout the day. Being a part of this regular pack will decrease their distress about being away from you.

Dog Separation Anxiety Toy Review: Ethical Pet Seek-A-Treat Puzzle

I got this Seek-A-Treat Puzzle Toy from my grandma as a present! It is super fun and boy do they tire me out! My mom likes to make me work on them before she leaves me home alone (especially on cold or rainy days when we can’t play ball) so that she knows that I will be super tired and sleep the whole time she is gone.

She said that she wouldn’t leave us home alone with these because our paws scratch them up and they would be easy for us to chew into little-bitty, entsy-weansy pieces that we might swallow. So she said it is best to let us play with these puzzles supervised and then give us Kongs when she leaves us home alone.

This Seek-A-Treat Puzzle is pretty fun but don’t tell mom that I think its pretty easy… I like the easy ones because I can get the treats out faster! I heard her saying that she wants to get me some harder ones so that it takes me longer but I hope she keeps giving me this one!

Anyway, here is a video of me showing you how the Seek-A-Treat Puzzle works to tire me out and make me sleep so I don’t have dog separation anxiety:

What do you think? Am I a woofy star now?!

If you want to get one of these toys to help tire your dog out mentally you can order one on Amazon.com.

Woof!
Manchego

ps. Check out more of my favorite Toys for Dog Separation Anxiety.

Canine Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety is a panic response in a dog that manifests in the form of insecurities, fear, or destructive behaviors such as chewing, soiling, or scratching at doors to escape.  It is one of the most common canine behavioral problems owners experience. This escapist reaction usually happens when the dog is left alone in its natural home environment, shortly after the owner’s departure. 

 

There are no known direct causes related to this behavior.   However, it is suggested that early puppy environmental factors may contribute to these traumatic reactions.  Some puppies may have an abnormal predisposition to dependency with either mother or owner.  This could stem from genetics or be established through early puppy development where the mother (or owners) over-protect and coddle the puppy encouraging such behaviors.  

 

Traumatic events are another example of early influences that can trigger separation anxiety responses.  A puppy that experiences early separation from its mother could show insecurities as it matures.  Puppies that are adopted or purchased through pet shops or backyard breeders may also experience traumatic situations.  This may be due to both early separation from mother, and limited human contact and socialization. 

 

The most common behavioral sign of separation anxiety is a dog that is clingy or needy for fear of being left alone.  This dog constantly requires your attention and may attempt to get in your lap repeatedly or lap at your face.  Often, the dog will follow its owner from room to room, shaking and/or whimpering.

 

Over-reactions are another example of behavioral signs.  This includes shaking, whining, barking, excessive licking and aggression towards owner all at the onset of departure. 

 

 

To change or modify a dog’s behavior through specific methods is considered desensitizing.  This involves lessening the anxiety level of the dog by replacing bad behaviors with new behaviors through repeated training and conditioning.

 

Step 1:  Prepare to leave the house.  This may involve getting a coat or keys, putting on shoes, etc.

 

Step 2:  Go to the door (notice but do not acknowledge behavior) but do not leave.  Retreat inside the house and have a seat.  Take off coat, wait a few minutes before proceeding to step 3.

 

Step 3:  Prepare to leave again.  Go to the door, open it for a few seconds, and then close the door and retreat into the house.

 

Step 4:  After a few minutes has passed, repeat the process, but this time exit the house and wait outside for thirty seconds with the door closed before reentering.

 

Repeat this process each day extending the amount of time in between steps until you can stay outside the door for several minutes without hearing barking or having destructive behaviors take place.

 

 

It is important to address separation anxiety issues as ignoring the problem may compound the situation, or may cause a dog to replace one bad behavior for another to overcome anxiousness.  Though the suggestions above are a general way to modify separation anxiety issues, more training may be required.

 

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Ideas For Dog Separation Anxiety

If the puppies are typically left at residential alone, these are likely to have a tendency to become anxious and stressed. The nervousness will make the k-9s feel upset and they will bark or chew the issues inside the property to create themselves presume ease. Substantially a bit more almost always, people will consider these behaviors to get unreasonable. In fact, the canines can quit the destructive behaviors if they get some home teaching. This write-up will share with you some very good strategies to aid your dog get rid of separation anxiety.
You can expect to want to try to tolerate these behaviors of one’s canine. Canine also like staying with their mates and they love to play with other young puppies. When they are left on your own at residence, they are heading to become infuriating and uncomfortable. If the owner locks the canine in the property for your sake of their safety, the k9s could notably perfectly chew anything in their sight, which includes the chairs, the clothes, the socks as definitely as the papers and so on. Most of the occasions, customers will glimpse into these behaviors to be the sign of destroying the whole property. Regularly, the canines will very likely be blamed and even punished. Understanding and toleration are rather vital for your k-9s. You should really attempt to create the k-9s actually palpate secure and comfy by giving them way alot more care.
Which you can give some dwelling schooling to your canines. As you canines really feel disturbing due to the truth they are not accustomed to becoming left alone for any extended time. You could potentially start to train them by gradually prolong the time that you are outdoors. You’ll find it doable you might do the instruction step by step. For that beginning, you could go out and lock the door for five minutes. When your canines can tolerate the stress for 5 minutes, it can be probable you can expect to make the time period lengthier. It demands loads of time and efforts for that canines to finish the instructing. You wants to be more patient and not so eager to make your weasels to tolerate the amazing rigidity for any whole day and even lengthier time interval.
Often speaking, some with the separation worry can be eliminated by some instruction. Nonetheless, if your dogs nonetheless feel irritating and anxious when left alone, you might seek some support through the veterinarian or by dog separation anxiety solutions. There could possibly be some secure medicine to enable the dogs not to feel so anxious. And also you may also hire a person to care your dogs whenever you are outdoors to get a lengthy period.

Six Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

The physical signs of anxiety are excessive panting, drooling, peeing, barking, whining.  Some dogs refuse to eat or become withdrawn (not Max).  Usually, these behaviors occur every time the dog is left alone but not in all cases.  Sometimes the anxiety only happens on the second departure of a day or only on work day departures. In more extreme cases, the dogs become destructive and can hurt themselves.  Perhaps I can find pictures or what a dog can do to drywall and door trim.  More on Max’s Houdini tricks later, too.  The important thing is that separation anxiety can be treated.  It takes a great deal of preserverence and patience, but the anxiety can be reduced.  I’m happy to report that I can now leave Max home without worrying about the house being torn apart in a state of panic.  I might find garbage strewn about or a bread wrapper minus one brand new loaf of bread, but I don’t come home to destruction and insanity anymore.  Life really does get better!

Dog Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is one of the most common problems that dogs develop. It’s an anxiety disorder, and is defined as a state of intense panic brought on by the dog’s isolation/separation from her owner(s). In other words: when you leave for work in the morning, your dog is plunged into a state of nervous anxiety which intensifies extremely quickly.

Dogs are social animals – they need plenty of company and social interaction to keep them happy and content. No dog likes to be left alone for long stretches of time, but some dogs do a lot worse than others: these are the ones most prone to separation anxiety.

There are a number of contributing causes to the condition:
- Some breeds are genetically predisposed towards anxiety and insecurity, which is something you should consider when deciding which breed you’re going to go for (particularly if you’re going to be absent for long stretches of time). A few of these breeds include Weimaraners, Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds, and Airedales
- A significant proportion of dogs from shelters develop separation anxiety. Most of these ‘shelter dogs’ have undergone significant trauma in their lives – they’ve been abandoned by their previous owners – and thus they have little trust that their new-found owner (you) isn’t going to pull the same trick.
- Dogs that were separated from their mothers and siblings too early have been identified as being especially prone to separation anxiety. Puppies from pet-stores are a perfect example of this: they’re usually taken from their mothers well before the earliest possible age (which is 8 weeks), and confined to a small glass box in the petstore for anywhere between a few weeks to two months. This early weaning, coupled with the lack of exercise and affection while in the petstore, is psychologically traumatic for the dog.
- Neglect is the number-one cause of sepration anxiety for dogs. If you’re absent much more than you’re present in your dog’s life, separation anxiety is pretty much inevitable. Your dog needs your company, affection, and attention in order to be happy and content.

The symptoms of separation anxiety are pretty distinctive: your dog will usually learn to tell when you’re about to leave (she’ll hear keys jingling, will see you putting on your outdoor clothes, etc) and will become anxious. She may follow you from room to room, whining, trembling, and crying. Some dogs even become aggressive, in an attempt to stop their owners from leaving.

When you’ve left, the anxious behavior will rapidly worsen and usually will peak within half an hour. She may bark incessantly, scratch and dig at windows and doors (an attempt to escape from confinement and reunite herself with you), chew inappropriate items, even urinate and defecate inside the house. In extreme cases, she might self-mutilate by licking or chewing her skin until it’s raw, or pulling out fur; or will engage in obsessive-compulsive behaviors, like spinning and tail-chasing. Upon your return, she’ll be excessively excited, and will leap around you in a frenzy of delight for a protracted period of time (more than the 30 seconds to one minute of a happy, well-balanced dog.) This extended greeting is a source of some misunderstanding: without realizing that such a greeting actually signifies the presence of a psychological disorder, some owners actually encourage their dog to get more and more worked up upon their return (by fuelling the dog’s excitement, encouraging her to leap around, paying her protracted attention, and so on.) If you’re behaving in this way with your dog, please stop. I know it’s tempting and very easy to do, and it seems harmless – after all, she’s so happy to see you, what harm can it do to return her attention and affection in equal measure? – but in actuality, you’re just validating her belief that your return is the high point of the day. So she’s as happy as Larry when you return – but, when it’s time for you to leave again, her now-exaggerated happiness at your presence is under threat, and she gets even more unhappy when you walk out that door.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to minimize your dog’s tendency towards anxiety. Here’s a short list of do’s and don’ts: Do:

- Exercise the heck out of her. Really wear her out: the longer you expect to be away, the more exercise she should get before you leave. For example, if you’re leaving for work in the morning, she’ll probably be by herself for at least four hours; and, if you’ve got a dog-walker to take her out mid-day instead of coming back yourself, she won’t see you – the person she really cares about – for at least nine hours. So she needs a good, vigorous walk (fifteen to twenty minutes is the absolute minimum here!) before you walk out that door. More is even better.
- Distract her from her boredom, loneliness, and anxiety by giving her an attractive alternative to pining, pacing, and whining. All dogs love to chew – why not play on this predisposition? Get a couple of marrowbones from the butcher, bake them in the oven for 20 minutes (so they go nice and hard and crunchy – and so she can’t smear marrow all over your furniture), slice them up into chunks of a few inches long, and give her one about 15 minutes before you leave. It’ll keep her happy and occupied, and will act as a smokescreen for your departure. – When you leave, put the radio on to a soothing station: classical music is ideal, but any station featuring lots of talk shows is also ideal. Keep the volume quite low, and it’ll calm her down a bit and give her the feeling that she’s got company.
- If at all possible, supply her with a view: if she can see the world going by, that’s the next best thing to being out and about in it. – Acclimatize her to your leaving. Taking things nice and slowly, practice getting ready to go: jingle your keys about, put on your coat, and open the door. Then – without leaving! – sit back down and don’t go anywhere. Do this until she’s not reacting any more. When there’s no reaction, give her a treat and lavish praise for being so brave. Next, practice actually walking out the door (and returning immediately), again doing this until there’s no reaction. Gradually work up – gradually being the operative word here! – until you’re able to leave the house with no signs of stress from her.

Do not:
- Act overtly sympathetic when she’s crying. Although it sounds very cold-hearted, trying to soothe and comfort your dog by patting her and cooing over her is actually one of the worst things you can do: it’s essentially validating her concern. Make sure she can’t tell that you feel sorry for her: don’t ever say, “It’s OK, good girl” when she’s upset! If you’re interested in getting a more detailed look at how to deal with your dog’s separation anxiety, you might like to check out Secrets to Dog Training. It’s a great learning tool for anyone who wants to learn how to deal constructively with their dog’s problem behaviors.

All of the common behavioral problems are dealt with in detail, and there’s a great section on obedience commands and tricks too. You can visit the Secrets to Dog Training site by clicking on the link below: www.kingdomofpets.com

| Separation Anxiety Dog Blog

Baby, it’s cold outside. 

I’m in Michigan and it’s been cold for too long.  Are you remembering to keep your dog warm if you’re in a cold environment like me?

 

Dogs don’t get cold – wrong

Some people think just because dogs have fur, they don’t get cold.  No way!  Their paws are so sensitive.  Just like people, they can’t be outside for long in bitter cold unless a lot of precautions are taken.

 

Max hasn’t been getting enough walks lately.  With dangerous wind chills and icy streets, it’s been a challenge.  We need to do better.  He needs to get out.  Any ideas for how to stay motivated?

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 at 4:05 pm and is filed under Canine Advice, Canine Petpourri, It’s a dogs life. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Separation Anxiety

Ok, I’ve finally broke down and admitted that Vito has a mild form of separation anxiety. It’s not just frustration, but actual anxiety. Not good. On Thursday I went half an hour early to Lance’s agility class so I could work with Vito in the crate. He really is learning to love his kennel….with the door open. He will stay in there while I walk 20ft away, come when I call, and then before I can even tell him to “kennel up” he sprints back to an open kennel. However, as soon as the door is closed he needs a treat every 10 seconds before he starts a panic attack. So during class, I quickly shunned Vito back to the crate room so I wouldn’t have to hear his shrieking. After class I went to get him and he was surprisingly quiet. However, as soon as I opened the door I was attacked by one of those monkeys with velcro on all paws. He jumped into my arms and was shaking. I spent another half hour after class working on his kennel again.

At daycare he has also started whining when I have to leave the small dog area for a bit. Even for just a couple of seconds. Luckily he is fine in there if I’m gone for awhile, but when he sees me leaving he freaks. On the positive side he is good if left with Lance. I can leave him and Lance in the kitchen at daycare together, or in an expen, and overall Vito does ok with that. But I don’t want him to have to be reliant on Lance to feel safe. I’m kind’ve at a loss though on what else to do. It seems like we are doing everything right.

This is Vito’s girlfriend, Harleigh. Harleigh is a couple of days older than Vito and is a rottie/lab mix. They love making out underneath the playground equiptment. I tried to discourage them on Friday by lifting up the little castle, but as soon as it was back on the ground they raced under it to play again. Vito’s in love.

Oh, and we finally got his meds Thursday evening, but haven’t noticed any difference. He’s only getting one nasal spray though, so we might have to up it to 2 (the recommended dose).
Vito weighs about 13lb now and is 14weeks old.

Dealing with Dog Separation Anxiety

Peel usual your dog or “bow wow” can not always carry the same message. As your dog approaches you, do not be fooled. Your pet, which may very well be your best friend can not ask for the same pe munchies. Maybe – just maybe – the mutt-friend is facing a strong sense of fear – separation anxiety in dogs.

Separation anxiety in dogs begins after they felt a sign that his master is about to leave. Getting the car keys, turning the knobs, and other usual morning routine – these tips to act as stimuli, or more appropriately, the warning signs, which tend to attract the attention of the dog.

This scenario can lead to disasters such as dogs, due to separation anxiety, begin to behave destructively. Destructive behavior can include the output of furniture, shoes and other objects inside the house or near room full of marks paw, dog bites, and scratches.

Sometimes, just like how the howling dog after being separated from his mother, the dogs down without hesitation as a manifestation of his separation anxiety. Studies have shown that dogs, like humans, can also feel overwhelming fear whenever they feel to be left behind. Fortunately, similar to how human anxiety is taken care of, separation anxiety in dogs is also treated by various methods and medications. To be sure, the treatment of animal boredom and anxiety is very different. Separation anxiety in dogs usually occurs due to close “super” attachment between dog and master. Dogs who are “very close” to his master tend to require constant attention from its handler.

Even the owners of the most ardent animal should understand that despite showing love is important, it is also vital to train a dog to be independent and accept the periods of separation. Animals, especially dogs, who struggle with separation anxiety will show anxiety-related behavior when you feel alone or is aware that it will eventually be left alone. Having a pet behaves strangely because of separation anxiety is definitely a problem. In mild cases, the animal may only show a bit of breathing or less destructive behavior. In severe cases, dogs can cause intolerable damage to their property and their neighbors. You would not want an annoying neighbor to harass you with questions about your dog right?

At this juncture, it is important to have information on how to deal with its threat mutt. There are several practical solutions to effectively treat separation anxiety in dogs. Check them out.

Encourage independence

Within walking distance is not always equal the cruelty and neglect. Train your animals to be independent, do not always give all his caprices. Let them play with other people, so whenever you are forced to leave the house, your dog would not end with sofas and foot-marks on the front door.

Promoting independence

It is also important to make the house your dog or a clean, habitable and healthy for your pet. Unless the site is suitable, more like the animal in oder to let you go. This would further attachment of the animal with the owner. However, if you let the animal feel comfortable where it is supposed to be eventually your dog will learn to “stay”, and really enjoy it. Treating separation anxiety in dogs is important for the health of your pet and to keep order in your home.

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Thundershirt Anxiety in Dogs New Study Results Separation Anxiety Noise Phobia

2011 has brought some remarkable results for Thundershirt and Thundershirt customers and of course, Thundershirt dogs. Thundershirt company has just released their latest study about anxiety in dogs and study results regarding separation anxiety and noise phobia in dogs using the Thundershirt.

They say the best advertising is word of mouth. Thundershirt has become a household word among dog owners with separation anxiety and noise phobia dogs.

We provide Thundershirts for our customers especially the customers who buy our heavy duty dog crates. Sometimes it helps for the seriously anxious dog to wear his Thundershirt while inside the heavy duty dog crate.

Take a look at some of the findings of the latest Thundershirt study done by an independent third party.

2011 Dog Anxiety Survey

We are excited to announce the results of the 2011 Thundershirt Dog Anxiety Survey!

While widely believed that anxiety and fear issues are very common for dogs, there has been very little research to determine just how common they are and what solutions are being used by dog owners.  Conducted by an independent third party, the survey was completed for over 1,960 dogs in the general dog population and an additional 1,999 dogs in the Thundershirt customer base.  A few highlights:

• Over 23 million dogs in the U.S. are suffering from anxiety or fear issues.


• Dog owners are spending over $ 1 billion each year coping with anxiety and fear issues.  They are spending over $ 240 million per year on damaged property alone! 
  


• Thundershirt was reported to provide significant improvement for symptoms for over 82% of dogs that have used Thundershirts.

So you can easily see why Thundershirt is solving separation anxiety and noise phobia in dogs around the world. Thundershirt has established and earned their reputation for getting the job done where there are anxiety issues in dogs.

If you have an anxiety dog give Thundershirt a try. Rarely will you find a product that does so much and costs so little.

I hope you have enjoyed this post: “Thundershirt Anxiety in Dogs New Study Results Separation Anxiety Noise Phobia” as another important and informative way of improving quality of life for you, your family and your dogs. Don’t forget about our heavy duty dog crates for separation anxiety and noise phobia dogs. Stop the damage-take control.

About The Author

Bill Beavers, brings you pet products that provide improved Quality of Life for You, Your Family and Your Pets.

You can connect with Bill on Twitter or Facebook and follow his latest projects. For Fun, Facts and Love for our pets follow this blog for informational and entertaining posts and cool tips.