Separation-related behavior problems in dogs can cause significant distress for both pets and their owners, sometimes leading to the difficult decision of relinquishment. These issues, often referred to as separation anxiety, manifest when a dog is left alone, distinguishing them from the typical passive behavior seen in dogs without these problems. While some initial anxiety is normal for puppies after adoption, persistent and problematic behaviors indicate a deeper issue that requires understanding and intervention. This article delves into the nature of separation-related problems, their potential causes, and effective treatment strategies.
The Nature of Separation Anxiety
Dogs exhibiting separation-related behavior problems engage in undesirable actions when their owners are absent. The most frequently observed issues include destructive behavior and excessive vocalization, such as whining and barking. Less common, but still significant, problems encompass inappropriate elimination, self-injurious actions, repetitive motor activities like pacing, escape attempts, trembling, excessive salivation, and a general state of depression. The bond between dogs and their owners is akin to an attachment, with anxious dogs often displaying more pronounced attachment behaviors. Separation anxiety is specifically defined as distress experienced in the absence of an attachment figure. Prior to an owner’s departure, dogs with these problems may exhibit signs of excessive attachment, such as following their owners closely, or anticipatory behaviors like whining, pacing, or freezing.
It is important to note that the peak intensity of these behaviors typically occurs shortly after the owner leaves, rather than escalating over time due to boredom. Conversely, dogs with separation-related problems often show excessive excitement upon their owner’s return. While some research suggests a link between separation anxiety and excessive attachment, other studies present contradictory findings. Research by Parthasarathy and Crowell-Davis indicated that dogs spent similar amounts of time near their owners regardless of their separation anxiety scores, suggesting proximity might not be a reliable diagnostic indicator. Further findings by Stephen and Ledger imply that separation anxiety might be an issue the dog carries with them, rather than solely an attachment to a specific human, as correlations between ratings from previous and new owners were higher for separation anxiety than for other problems. Their work also suggests that rehoming without treatment is unlikely to resolve these issues.
The Importance and Impact of Separation-Related Problems
It is estimated that 20% of the dog population experiences separation-related behavior problems. However, the diagnosis often relies on indirect evidence, such as property destruction or neighbor complaints about barking, because the behaviors occur when the owner is not present. This can lead to under-reporting and under-diagnosis. The consequences of these problems can be severe. Dogs may cause extensive damage to homes, including destroying structural elements and even injuring themselves in the process. One documented case involved a dog that ate through the home’s electrical supply, starting a fire. Excessive vocalization can lead to neighbor complaints and involvement of local authorities. Living with a dog exhibiting these behaviors can cause considerable emotional and financial strain, frequently leading to the dog being surrendered to animal shelters. While aggression and separation-related problems may appear at similar ages, owners tend to seek help for separation anxiety later. Furthermore, separation anxiety is linked to a higher incidence of skin problems and can be associated with other anxiety-related disorders, potentially increasing the likelihood of aggression or phobic behaviors.
Factors Contributing to Separation-Related Behavior Problems
Research into the factors predisposing dogs to separation anxiety has yielded mixed results. While many studies suggest males are more prone to these issues, some research finds no sex difference. Similarly, findings on whether sleeping arrangements (e.g., on the owner’s bed) or the source of dog acquisition (e.g., breeder vs. shelter) influence the likelihood of developing separation problems are not consistent. Some studies indicate a higher risk for dogs from shelters or those found, while others find no significant difference. Living situations also appear to play a role, with some research suggesting higher rates in single-adult households or couples compared to families with children, although other studies find no effect of children’s presence. Some researchers have observed an increased probability of separation-related problems with a higher number of adult women in the home, while others found no link between owner sex and the incidence of separation anxiety.
Additional risk factors identified include dogs that have food available at all times rather than at discrete meal times, and those adopted at an older age. Dogs living in apartments may also be at higher risk. Conversely, dogs exposed to a variety of human experiences and environments between 5 and 10 months of age seem less likely to develop these problems. There is also evidence suggesting that dogs separated from their littermates too early, particularly those from pet shops, are more prone to developing problematic behaviors.
Changes in the household, such as a new resident, a job change, alterations in the owner’s routine absence, or a single traumatic event, can trigger or exacerbate separation anxiety. However, not all research supports a direct link between household changes and the onset of separation anxiety.
In summary, several factors can contribute to separation anxiety. These include being male, early separation from the litter, a lack of early socialization experiences, older age at adoption, being sourced from shelters or being found, living in apartments, and residing in homes without children. Household changes can also act as triggers. Additionally, dogs with excessive attachment to their owners may be more prone to developing separation anxiety, displaying more attachment behaviors overall.
Understanding and Implementing Treatments for Canine Separation Anxiety
Various approaches have been explored for treating separation-related behavior problems in dogs.
Medication
Two medications, clomipramine (Clomicalm®) and fluoxetine (Prozac®), are approved in the United States for treating canine separation anxiety. These are antidepressant drugs also used in humans. Clomipramine, at specific dosages, has been shown to increase passive behavior and decrease undesirable actions like pacing and whining in dogs left alone. Some studies suggest that combining clomipramine with clonidine may enhance its effectiveness. Fluoxetine, administered in chewable tablet form, has also demonstrated improvements in separation-related behaviors compared to a placebo, even in the absence of formal behavior therapy. Combinations of fluoxetine with other medications have been investigated, though their effectiveness can be difficult to isolate due to concurrent behavioral interventions.
While some studies report minimal adverse reactions with clomipramine, other research indicates potential side effects such as lethargy, vomiting, and even pancreatitis. Fluoxetine has also been associated with lethargy, depression, and loss of appetite in some dogs. It is important to note that medication alone may not completely eliminate separation anxiety, and behavioral therapy is often still necessary. Some experts recommend using medication in the initial phases of treatment to help manage severe symptoms, with the goal of gradually withdrawing the medication as the dog improves. However, some studies have found no significant improvement with clomipramine compared to a placebo, supporting the use of behavioral therapy alone. Reluctance to medicate or the cost of medication can also be factors for owners to consider.
Dog-Appeasing Pheromone
The use of a synthetic dog-appeasing pheromone, delivered via an electric diffuser, has shown promise in reducing separation-related behaviors. One study found this approach to be as effective as clomipramine when used in conjunction with behavior modification, and with fewer undesirable side effects.
Behavioral Treatments
Behavioral interventions for separation-related problems can include reducing the dog’s dependency on the owner, eliminating punishment, providing engaging activities for when the dog is alone, and employing systematic desensitization. Blackwell et al. found that a comprehensive behavioral advice program incorporating these elements was effective, with individually tailored interventions potentially yielding better results than generic advice.
Systematic desensitization, a technique adapted from human phobia treatment, involves gradually exposing the dog to increasingly longer periods of owner absence, starting with very short durations that do not elicit anxiety. This is often paired with counterconditioning, where the owner’s departure is associated with positive experiences, such as receiving food. The rationale is that anxiety and relaxation or pleasure are incompatible states. Studies have shown that combining systematic desensitization with counterconditioning can be highly successful, with some research suggesting its efficacy even when administered by owners, highlighting its robustness as a method. This approach may be preferred by owners due to its non-medicinal nature and lower cost, though it requires a significant time commitment.
Other Helpful Factors
Video recording dogs during owner absences can aid in diagnosing separation-related disorders and monitoring treatment progress, revealing subtle signs of stress. It is generally recommended that owners aim for moderation in the length of their absences, avoiding both excessively long periods alone and prolonged periods with constant companionship. Clear and specific instructions are crucial for owner compliance; research suggests that providing more than five instructions can decrease the likelihood of improvement. The delivery method of advice (in-person, phone, or email) appears to be less important than its clarity and specificity.
Recommendations for Dog Owners
For Prospective Owners
Individuals considering adopting a dog can minimize the likelihood of future separation-related problems by selecting dogs that are female, sourced from family and friends rather than shelters, and not separated from their litter before 60 days of age.
For New Dog Owners (Prevention)
To prevent the development of separation-related problems, owners should provide a wide range of experiences and social interactions for puppies between 5 and 10 months of age. Maintaining stable routines and avoiding sudden changes in the dog’s schedule or owner’s absences is important. Owners should aim for regular, short-to-medium length absences, gradually habituating the dog to increasing durations. Crucially, punishment should be avoided as a training tool, as it can increase anxiety. Minimizing excessive attachment by discouraging constant following and toning down departure and greeting rituals is also advised.
For Existing Dog Owners (Treatment)
For dogs already exhibiting separation-related problems, a multi-faceted approach is recommended. Initially, medication such as clomipramine or fluoxetine, administered concurrently with behavior modification, may be beneficial. Owners should cease all forms of punishment immediately. The most effective behavioral intervention appears to be a combination of systematic desensitization and counterconditioning. This involves gradually increasing the duration of absences, starting with very short periods, and providing a highly desirable food item immediately before departure to create a positive association. If the dog’s behavior worsens, the duration of absences should be reduced before resuming gradual increases. Monitoring the dog’s behavior with a video camera can help assess treatment effectiveness.
Conclusion
Separation anxiety is a complex condition that significantly impacts the well-being of both dogs and their owners. While research findings are not always unanimous, several factors can predispose dogs to developing these problems, and understanding these can aid in prevention. Although owners can take steps to prevent separation anxiety, if it does develop, it can often be reduced or eliminated through a dedicated program of behavior modification, potentially supplemented with medication in the early stages. Further research is needed to refine treatment protocols, particularly by examining the distinct effects of systematic desensitization and counterconditioning, both with and without pharmacological support, to provide the clearest and most effective advice for owners dealing with their dog’s separation anxiety.
Disclosure: The author reports no conflict of interest in this work.
