It’s a distressing situation for any dog owner: returning home after a short absence to find your beloved pet drooling excessively, trembling, and showing signs of extreme fear. The evidence of destructive behavior near the door, with the TV remote and couch cushions chewed to pieces, clearly indicates more than just typical canine misbehavior. This could be a sign of separation anxiety, a condition that causes significant stress for both your dog and for you. Understanding and addressing these issues is crucial for your dog’s safety and well-being.
Separation anxiety is a stress response that a dog experiences when separated from the person or people they are bonded to. A certified separation anxiety trainer (CSAT) likens a dog’s experience of separation anxiety to a human having a panic attack. When a dog with separation anxiety is left alone, their body is flooded with stress hormones, similar to how a person with a fear of heights might experience physical symptoms like sweaty palms and a rapid heart rate when placed in a high-up location.
Understanding and Managing Dog Separation Anxiety
The primary goals in treating separation anxiety are to help your dog become less dependent on your constant presence and to foster their ability to relax when you are not home. It’s important to understand that there is no quick fix for stress-related behaviors like separation anxiety; it requires time, patience, and a consistent approach. For complex cases, seeking guidance from a professional is highly recommended. Look for a trainer or behaviorist with specialized experience in separation anxiety, such as a CSAT or a veterinary behaviorist who can also assess the need for anxiety medication. Always ensure that any professional you work with utilizes positive reinforcement training techniques.
Behavior Modification Strategies
The most effective way to help a dog with separation anxiety is to systematically change their perception of being alone. This is achieved through a process known as systematic desensitization, where the dog is gradually exposed to short periods of alone time. A dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can create a tailored behavior modification program. Initially, training involves very brief absences, ensuring the dog remains “sub-threshold,” meaning they do not exhibit stress behaviors. The duration of these absences is slowly increased as the dog demonstrates comfort. If the dog shows signs of panic, the time is reduced. It’s also crucial to desensitize pre-departure cues, such as picking up keys or putting on shoes, which can trigger anxiety. These cues should be incorporated into training sessions to show the dog that they do not always predict a prolonged absence and that you will return.
Managing Absences During Training
A critical aspect of managing separation anxiety is to prevent your dog from experiencing prolonged periods of being alone, especially once training has begun. This might involve enlisting the help of a neighbor, friend, family member, dog walker, or utilizing doggy daycare. Consistent management of absences is vital to protect the progress made during training. Returning your dog to a situation where they are left alone for extended periods after achieving comfort with shorter durations can undo previous work and damage their trust.
The Role of Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Increasing your dog’s physical exercise, especially before you leave, can be beneficial, particularly for milder forms of separation anxiety, sometimes referred to as separation intolerance. Engaging your dog’s mind with challenging games or puzzle toys can help them settle once you depart. Activities like playing “find the toy” or training simple tricks to teach your border collie can provide mental stimulation, leaving them more ready for rest.
Interactive, treat-dispensing toys can also be a positive addition to your dog’s routine when you leave. However, it’s important to use caution with these toys for dogs suffering from severe separation anxiety. The association of the toy with your departure can sometimes heighten anxiety once the treats are gone and you are still absent.
When Medication May Be Necessary
In certain situations, a veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medication to aid in the treatment of separation anxiety. This is typically considered when a dog is:
- Injuring themselves due to anxiety.
- Harming other animals in the household.
- Causing significant damage to the home.
- Experiencing a compromised quality of life or facing the risk of rehoming due to their anxiety.
Medication is generally used in conjunction with behavior modification training, helping to reduce the dog’s overall anxiety and make training more effective. Many dogs benefit from medication that can lower their threshold for anxiety and facilitate learning within the separation anxiety protocol. Discussing your dog’s specific needs with your veterinarian is essential to determine if medication is an appropriate option.
Managing, Not Curing, Separation Anxiety
While separation anxiety in dogs cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense, it can be effectively managed with consistent training and patience. The process can feel overwhelming, as progress may be incremental, sometimes measured in seconds. However, working with a qualified positive trainer or veterinary behaviorist early on can significantly reduce frustration for both you and your dog, leading to an improved quality of life. With dedication and the right support, recovery and a calmer coexistence are possible.
References:
- PetMD: Excessive Drooling in Dogs
- PetMD: Why Do Dogs Shake Their Fur?
- PetMD: Separation Anxiety in Dogs
- Doggy Einstein’s Training: About Tina Flores
- PetMD: How to Train a Dog with Positive Reinforcement
- Chewy: How to Hire a Dog Walker
- Chewy: Puzzle Toys and Games
- PetMD: Ways to Keep a Dog Mentally Stimulated
- Chewy: Dog Commands: Shake a Paw
- Chewy: Treat Toys & Dispensers
- Quakertown Veterinary Clinic: About
- PetMD: 10 Medications for Dog Anxiety
