Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Effects and Solutions

By Ness Jones.

Separation anxiety, or separation-related behavior, is a common behavioral issue in dogs, often resulting in distress and problematic behaviors when they are left alone. While many dogs may experience mild discomfort when separated from their caregivers, others suffer from intense anxiety that can lead to destructive actions, excessive barking, and other signs of distress. This condition can affect dogs of all breeds and ages, and the impacts can be felt not just by the dog, but by the entire household.

When dogs with separation anxiety are left alone, they may feel as though they are in a state of extreme fear and panic. This can lead to a variety of behaviors such as excessive vocalization, attempts to escape, or destruction of furniture and belongings. For many caregivers, it can feel overwhelming and isolating, as they struggle to manage their dog’s anxiety while trying to maintain a normal life. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing effective treatment plans are key to helping dogs overcome separation anxiety.

In this article, we’ll explore the signs of separation anxiety, the impact it has on families, and how caregivers can help their dogs through gradual training and management strategies. We’ll also debunk some common myths about separation anxiety and provide tips on how to best support a dog in overcoming this distressing condition.

What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

In a groundbreaking study from the University of Helsinki in 2020, researchers examined canine temperaments and discovered that some breeds are more prone to anxiety-related behaviors, including separation anxiety. Mixed-breed dogs, in particular, showed higher rates of distress when left alone, often displaying destructive behaviors such as chewing, urinating, or defecating. In contrast, breeds like Wheaten Terriers were more likely to vocalize, salivate, or pant when experiencing separation.

The study also revealed that male dogs were more likely to exhibit separation-related behaviors, while younger dogs tended to engage in destructive actions, whereas older dogs showed signs of compulsive behaviors regardless of age. This information sheds light on the underlying causes of separation anxiety, suggesting that it may be influenced by early-life experiences and the environment in which the dog was raised.

Identifying Separation Anxiety: Common Signs

Not all dogs express their anxiety in the same way, but some signs are more common than others. The most noticeable symptoms include excessive barking, howling, whining, or crying, often resulting in noise complaints from neighbors. Other dogs may attempt to escape or destroy property in an effort to relieve their anxiety. This can include tearing up furniture, doors, or even electronics.

In more extreme cases, dogs might soil in the house even if they were previously house-trained. Dogs may also show less obvious signs of stress, such as lip licking, drooling, panting, or shaking. Others might cower, freeze, or dig frantically. Caregivers who are familiar with their dogs should also look for other body language indicators such as tucked tails, wide eyes, and pinned ears.

The Toll on Families

Living with a dog that suffers from separation anxiety can be overwhelming, both for the dog and the caregivers. The stress of leaving the house becomes a major source of anxiety, as dogs with separation anxiety can destroy their surroundings or make leaving nearly impossible.

This strain extends beyond the dog. Relationships with family members may become tense, as partners might feel frustrated with the situation. The noise complaints from neighbors can sour those relationships as well. For many, the anxiety of receiving a noise violation letter or constantly needing to make arrangements for their dog’s care becomes a burden.

Spontaneous outings become a challenge, and the need for doggy daycare or pet sitters can add financial pressure. Even when leaving the dog alone is unavoidable, guilt becomes a constant companion, as caregivers know their dog will experience panic during their absence.

Debunking Common Myths About Separation Anxiety

While separation anxiety is a genuine condition, it is important to distinguish it from other issues that may be misinterpreted as such. Some dogs may simply experience frustration or fear of missing out (FOMO), rather than full-blown anxiety. For these dogs, providing mental stimulation and physical exercise can often resolve the issue.

Here are a few myths about separation anxiety:

1. Let them cry it out: This advice is commonly given, but it doesn’t address the root of the problem and may actually make the situation worse as the dog is left in a constant state of distress when they are left alone.
2. Distract them with a food-filled toy: While this may work for some dogs, it doesn’t help if the dog is too anxious to eat. Some dogs will gobble the food up and still become stressed after it has gone. Additionally, the food can actually become a trigger for the dog as it associates it with being alone and frightened.
3. Get another dog for company: Adding a second dog is not a guaranteed. It may work for some dogs, but in other cases it makes no difference whatsoever. In a household where a companion dog has passed and the other dog suddenly starts to exhibit separation-related behaviors, it is certainly worth exploring but if you do not want another dog, then you are better off doing training to help resolve the behavior. If you are worried the incoming dog may not get along with your dog, there are plenty of rescues looking for foster carers, so you could trial the situation to see if it does indeed help your dog, or not.
4. Crate them: While crates can be beneficial for some dogs, confining a dog with separation anxiety can make the problem worse, as it intensifies their panic. Some dogs suffer from containment phobia (think claustrophobia) and may panic even more when alone. So while some dogs do enjoy the ‘safe’ feeling of an enclosed space, in general most dogs exhibiting separation-related behaviors do better with more room.
5. Your dog is just being naughty: Dogs with separation anxiety are not misbehaving. Their behavior stems from fear and panic, which are difficult to control. Nor are they trying to ‘get back’ at or ‘get revenge’ on their guardian for leaving them alone. Dogs do not think this way. If your dog is ‘acting out’ when left alone, then they are in a state of distress and it is not intentional.

Addressing Separation Anxiety: Solutions and Treatment

If you suspect your dog has separation anxiety, the first step is to consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues, especially in older dogs who might be showing signs of cognitive decline. Pain, allergies, gastro issues and arthritis, and other medical issues, have also been known to make it harder for a dog to be alone.

The main treatment for separation anxiety is desensitization, a process where the dog is gradually accustomed to being alone for longer periods. This process should be slow and steady to avoid overwhelming the dog. During this training, it is essential to ensure that the dog is not left alone for extended periods, as this could trigger panic and reinforce the anxiety.

In some cases, medication may be necessary to help the dog cope while undergoing training. However, medication should be prescribed by a veterinarian and used in conjunction with behavior modification techniques.

Quick Tips for Managing Separation Anxiety:

1. Manage absences: Arrange for a friend, family member, or pet sitter/doggy daycare etc to stay with your dog while you’re away. This is not forever but it ensures your dog is not left to panic and thereby make their behavior worse. We do this until the dog is trained and learns that being alone is not something to be scared about.
2. Use a camera: Monitor your dog’s behavior when you’re out to ensure they’re not experiencing distress. Also observe your dog’s body language and have a deep understanding of what they do when they are starting to feel stress.
3. Exercise before leaving: Make sure your dog has had adequate physical activity before you leave. Exercise should be age-appropriate and create a dog that is ready to rest and relax. It should not be over-stimulating.
4. Mental stimulation: Provide enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys, to keep your dog mentally engaged. Challenge your dog with, for example, sniffing games which tire them out mentally.
5. Be patient: Remember, your dog is scared and struggling. Consistent, gentle support is key to overcoming their fear.

Conclusion

Separation anxiety in dogs is a serious condition that requires understanding, patience, and a structured approach. By seeking professional help and implementing desensitization techniques, dog guardians can help their pets manage their anxiety and rebuild their routines.

Ness Jones is a Certified Separation Anxiety Behavior Consultant who works remotely with dogs and their guardians around the world. Check out her free 40-page PDF examining dog behavior and its relation to separation anxiety here: https://www.decodingyourcanine.com/f/does-my-dog-have-separation-anxiety-or-not