Separation-related behavior problems in dogs are a significant concern for owners, often leading to distress for both the pet and the human companion. These issues manifest in various undesirable behaviors when a dog is left alone, ranging from destruction and excessive vocalization to more subtle signs of distress. This article delves into the nature of separation anxiety, its contributing factors, and the various treatment approaches available, drawing upon current research to provide a comprehensive understanding for dog owners.
The Nature of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Unlike dogs that exhibit calm behavior when left alone, those suffering from separation-related problems engage in destructive actions and excessive vocalizations, such as whining and barking. Less common, but equally distressing, behaviors include inappropriate elimination, self-injurious actions, repetitive motor activities like pacing, attempts to escape, trembling, excessive salivation, and signs of depression. The bond between dogs and their owners is akin to attachment, with dogs having been domesticated for their reliance on humans for over 10,000 years. Dogs with separation anxiety often display exaggerated attachment behaviors, following their owners closely and showing signs of distress as departure nears. This distress is typically most intense shortly after the owner leaves and can involve excessive excitement upon their return. While some research suggests a link between separation anxiety and excessive owner attachment, other studies indicate that the issue may be a broader behavioral problem the dog carries to new environments, rather than solely an attachment to a specific individual. This is supported by findings showing that separation anxiety scores in dogs often remain consistent even when they are rehomed.
The Importance and Impact of Separation-Related Problems
It is estimated that approximately 20% of the dog population experiences separation-related behavior problems. However, the reliance on indirect evidence, such as neighbor complaints about barking or visible destruction, can lead to under-reporting and under-diagnosis. The consequences of these behaviors can be severe. Dogs may cause extensive damage to homes, including chewing through drywall, tiles, and electrical wiring, sometimes leading to fires. Excessive vocalization can strain neighborly relations and lead to interventions from local authorities. Living with a dog exhibiting separation anxiety can cause significant emotional and financial strain, often resulting in the owner relinquishing the dog to an animal shelter. In fact, separation-related problems are frequently cited as a primary reason for dog relinquishment. While aggressive behaviors may appear at a similar age, owners tend to seek help for separation anxiety later. Furthermore, separation anxiety is associated with a higher incidence of skin problems and can be linked to increased aggression, phobic behaviors, and compulsive actions in dogs.
Factors Predisposing Dogs to Separation-Related Behavior Problems
Research into the factors that contribute to separation anxiety in dogs has yielded some conflicting results. However, several common themes emerge. Male dogs are more frequently identified as exhibiting anxiety-related problems compared to females. Some studies suggest that sleeping on the owner’s bed or sofa may be a contributing factor, though this is not universally supported. The source of acquisition also appears to play a role, with dogs obtained from animal shelters or those found being more prone to developing separation problems, while dogs acquired from friends and family tend to have a lower incidence. Living situations can also be a factor; higher rates of separation-related problems have been reported in dogs living with single adults, couples, or multiple adults compared to families with children, although other research finds no significant effect of children’s presence.
Additional predisposing factors include older adoption ages and living in apartments. Conversely, dogs exposed to diverse human interactions and experiences between 5 and 10 months of age are less likely to develop these issues. Early separation from the litter, particularly for dogs sourced from pet shops, has also been linked to problem behaviors, including destructive tendencies and excessive vocalization. Changes in the household, such as a new resident, a job change impacting routines, or a single traumatic event, can trigger or exacerbate separation anxiety.
Treatment Options for Canine Separation Anxiety
A range of treatments aims to address separation anxiety in dogs, from environmental management to pharmacological interventions and behavioral therapies.
Medication
Two medications are approved in the United States for treating canine separation anxiety: clomipramine (Clomicalm®) and fluoxetine (Prozac®). These antidepressant drugs, commonly used in humans, help manage the symptoms of anxiety. Clomipramine, at specific dosages, has been shown to increase passive behavior and decrease problematic actions like pacing and whining. While effective for many, side effects such as lethargy, vomiting, and even pancreatitis have been reported. Fluoxetine has also demonstrated effectiveness, though lethargy, depression, and appetite loss are potential adverse effects. Combining these medications with behavioral therapy generally yields better results than medication alone. However, some studies have found no significant improvement with clomipramine compared to a placebo, supporting the use of behavioral therapy as a standalone treatment. Cost and owner reluctance to medicate can also be barriers.
Dog-Appeasing Pheromone
The use of a synthetic dog-appeasing pheromone, delivered via an electric diffuser, has shown promise in reducing separation-related behaviors. Studies suggest it can be as effective as clomipramine when combined with behavior modification, and with fewer undesirable side effects.
Behavioral Treatments
Behavioral interventions are crucial for managing separation anxiety. These often include reducing the dog’s dependency on the owner, ceasing punishment for separation-related behaviors, providing engaging activities for when the dog is alone, and employing systematic desensitization.
Systematic desensitization involves gradually exposing the dog to short periods of owner absence, starting with durations that do not elicit anxiety, and progressively increasing the time as the dog becomes accustomed to it. This technique is often paired with counterconditioning, where the aversive stimulus (owner absence) is associated with a positive experience, such as receiving food. This pairing aims to create a positive association with the owner’s departure, inhibiting anxiety. This combined approach has shown high success rates in clinical studies. While systematic desensitization requires owner commitment and time, it is a drug-free and inexpensive option.
Recommendations for Dog Owners
When addressing separation-related problems, clear and specific advice is essential. For owners considering getting a dog, selecting a female dog from family or friends, avoiding early separation from the litter, and ensuring adequate socialization between 5-10 months of age can help minimize the risk. For new dog owners, maintaining stable routines, avoiding unusually long absences, and gradually habituating the dog to short-to-medium length absences using systematic desensitization are recommended. Punishment should be avoided entirely, as it can increase anxiety. Minimizing excessive attachment by discouraging constant following and reducing excitement during greetings and departures is also advised.
For owners currently dealing with separation anxiety, immediate cessation of all punishment is critical. A combination of medication (like clomipramine or fluoxetine) in the early stages, alongside a behavior modification program, is often recommended. The most effective behavioral intervention appears to be systematic desensitization and counterconditioning. This involves very short initial absences, gradually increasing in duration, and providing a high-value food reward immediately before departure. Owners should monitor their dog’s behavior, potentially using video recordings, to assess progress and adjust the length of absences accordingly.
Conclusion
Separation anxiety in dogs is a complex condition that can cause significant distress. While research findings may sometimes vary, certain risk factors have been identified. Owners can play a proactive role in prevention through careful selection and early socialization. For dogs already experiencing separation anxiety, a combination of behavioral modification, potentially supplemented by medication in the initial stages, offers the most promising path to reduction or elimination of these behaviors. Further research is needed to refine treatment protocols and provide even clearer guidance to owners navigating this challenging aspect of dog ownership.
