Is Your Furry Friend Suffering from Separation Anxiety? Here’s How to Help Them
Dogs are wonderful companions, but just like us, they can also experience anxiety. Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs, and its symptoms can range from destructive behavior to excessive barking and whining. If you suspect that your beloved furry friend may be dealing with this condition, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll be discussing signs your dog has separation anxiety and tips to help them overcome it.
Signs of Separation Anxiety
The signs of separation anxiety can be confusing or even missed. One of the most common signs is destructive behavior when alone or in a space where they can't come to see you. Dogs may chew on furniture, dig up carpets and flooring, or scratch doors and windows in an attempt to escape. They may also bark, whine, or howl excessively when you’re away, which can disturb your neighbors. Other signs include loss of appetite, excessive panting, and defecating indoors.
Tips to Help Your Pup Overcome Separation Anxiety
The first and foremost step is to establish a routine for your pet. A routine signals consistency, which makes it easier for dogs with separation anxiety to adjust to your absences. Next, try short periods of separation for your furry friend, leading up to extended periods to help them acclimate to staying alone. Incorporate positive methods of discipline such as training your dog to settle into a ‘rest’ position while encouraging calmness. Finally, provide them with interactive toys or tasty treats such as a frozen kong filled with your dog's food, which can keep them occupied and stress-free while you’re away.
Keep Calm and Positive
Dog owners should remain calm when leaving or returning home. Withhold overgreetings or extended exaltations of joy that can stress your dog in either direction. Given their emotional sensitivity, dogs must be attended to in a calm, consistent manner to avoid dependence and heightened stress upon separation.
Consult With Your Veterinary Professionals
Moreover, It is best to seek out the advice of your veterinary professionals. They can provide an official diagnosis, help create a treatment plan, and prescribe medication if needed. Supplements such as CBD have shown to aid in reducing the effects of anxiety on dogs, but consulting your vet is always crucial, as the cause of anxiety may differ depending on your dog's personality and breed.
The Long-Term Game Plan
Overcoming separation anxiety is a gradual process, and the goal for your furry friend isn't merely to tolerate your absence. But rather actively engage in activities such as playing, resting, or independent investigation.
Separation anxiety can be overwhelming, not only for a pet owner but also for their furry friend. But fret not; by establishing a routine, incorporating positive discipline training, keeping calm, and consulting your vet are some of the things you can do to help your furry friend lessen the burden of separation anxiety. Remember that overcoming separation anxiety is a gradual process and will require patience and consistency. With the right approach and consistent efforts, your furry friend will be on the path to recovery and comfortable with your absences.
Dogs are wonderful companions, but just like us, they can also experience anxiety. Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs, and its symptoms can range from destructive behavior to excessive barking and whining. If you suspect that your beloved furry friend may be dealing with this condition, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll…