Separation Anxiety: A Common Behavioral Disorder of Dogs

Separation Anxiety: A Common Behavioral Disorder of Dogs

If you notice a transformation in behavior of your dog when you leave the house, keeps things with your scent close to him, or if he is a managed dog but suddenly acts differently by peeing all over the house, then possibly, he is suffering from a disorder called separation anxiety. As a pet owner, it is best for you to know what is separation worries, its root cause, warning signs and treatment so that you can help and guide your dog for him to overcome such behavior.

Oftentimes, the dislike of being left alone or isolated causes separation anxiety. If your dog suffers from such disorder, he might behave differently from the way he usually behaves. Attachment or strong dependence to its master and genes are some reasons of separation anxiety. There are breeds of dogs that are more prone to experience such disorder compared to other dog breeds.

The owner's lack of leadership is one of the important reasons why dog feels separation anxiety. As his master, you should know that dogs, by nature, are pack animals and they are used to having a leader. They tend to dominate if the owner acts submissively to him, which eventually leads to not being able to tolerate the idea of the owner leaving him. The dog can also suffer from this disorder if it underwent some painful experiences during its puppy days. This may be due to being separated from its mother at an early period of time, lack of affection or death of someone in its master's family.

One of the symptoms of separation anxiety is when your dog chews on something which has a scent same as yours. Other indications include, hysterically greeting you upon arriving or crazily follow you around the house. In severe cases, the dog will display destructive behavior such as destroying everything inside the house if left alone.

One way to treat separation anxiety on your dog is to make him understand that you are his master. You can accomplish this by setting a schedule for your dog's activites like playtime. You can also help him cope up with your absence by giving him something that smells like you before leaving him alone or keeping him busy while you are away by leaving him with dog toys. You can also leave the radio on so that he will feel less lonely. Talking to your pet about your upcoming trip will also help him adjust on how long will he be alone and when will he expect you to come back. In extreme conditions, you can take your dog to the vet and your vet will give you the medication your dog needs.

It is important to know that understanding your dog is the key to helping him overcome separation anxiety. You must realize that punishing your dog would not help in fixing the problem. Show your love to your pet dog and help him feel secured. Above all, teach him how to become independent so that he can still live without you by his side.

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