While canine anxiety can stem from several sources, the most common trigger for dogs is separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a condition that occurs when a super-attached dog suffers anxiety when separated from its owner. Separation anxiety can create a difficult situation for both the dog owner and the dog. Many dog owners feel like they can’t leave home with peace of mind, and the stress of separation anxiety can be detrimental to the health of a dog.
There is a wealth of different solutions on the market for treating a dog with separation anxiety, from anti-anxiety dog beds to pharmaceutical remedies. Choosing the best treatment for a dog with separation anxiety depends on many factors, and getting quality information can help owners make the right choice for their dog. Many pet owners turn to natural solutions like SeaPet’s CBD Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract to help their dog handle a separation. But before we talk about treatment for a dog with separation anxiety, let’s discuss the signs and symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs.
What are the signs of canine separation anxiety?
There are many potential signs that your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety, ranging from the obvious to the more obscure. Understanding the signs your dog might display can help you differentiate separation anxiety from other behavioral problems in your dog. Likewise, knowing the signs of separation anxiety can help you start treating your dog faster and more effectively.
Some of the more noticeable signs of canine anxiety due to separation include barking or howling, going to the bathroom inside, or destructive dog behavior. Destructive behaviors from separation anxiety can include digging indoors, chewing on furniture or pillows, and otherwise destroying objects. There are also less dramatic symptoms of dog separation anxiety, such as pacing, hiding, trembling, or trying to escape.
You might notice that your dog starts to pace or whine at the time you get ready to leave the house. That’s a strong signal that your dog is suffering from some degree of separation anxiety. Some pet owners use a camera system to monitor the behavior of their dog while they are separated. This allows them to see details like how long their dog barks while they are gone, if they are exhibiting destructive behaviors, or not eating or drinking. This sort of information can give pet owners a clearer picture of the extent of their dog’s separation anxiety and the steps they need to take to care for them.
While a sign like excessive barking and crying while separated makes it clear that your dog is anxious, there are a variety of signs that might not be so obvious. Does your dog do any of these either before or after separation?
- Pacing or trembling
- Yawning or drooling
- Tail tucking or otherwise changing their posture
- Shedding
- Panting
- Inappropriate elimination
- Hiding or trying to escape the situation
These are just a few examples of less obvious ways your dog may let you know they are feeling anxious about separation. With any of the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs, it is best to make sure that their behavior problems are not actually signs of other problems. For example, if you have a new puppy who urinates or defecates upon separation from you, make sure that they are fully house-trained. Likewise, a dog could also have problems with certain medications that treat separation anxiety. You can talk to your dog’s veterinarian to ensure that their behavioral challenges are a result of anxiety brought on by separation.
What can cause dog separation anxiety or behavior problems due to separation?
For dogs, separation anxiety is a condition that is brought on by outside factors. This means that a dog with no history of anxiety could develop separation anxiety somewhat suddenly. Of course, if a puppy is treated poorly or has a traumatic early life, that can make separation anxiety more likely throughout its life. Likewise, some dogs experience general anxiety unrelated to, or in addition to, anxiety around separation. Dogs who begin to experience separation anxiety might only deal with it for a few weeks, or it can become a chronic mental health problem for them.
Changes in relationships or situations are the most likely to bring on separation anxiety in a dog. For example, if a dog is put up for adoption after living in one place for a while, it might be anxious about its owner leaving. Similarly, if the composition of their family changes, whether because of a new baby, the death of a family member, or a separation, dogs can experience increased anxiety. Moving to a new home can be difficult for some dogs, and the new environment can make them anxious when they are left alone. Sometimes, a disruption of their normal routine or schedule can lead to separation anxiety in a dog. In some cases, dogs with separation anxiety are particularly attached to one member of the family. They might be perfectly fine if most members of the family leave, but if their favorite person leaves, they will experience separation anxiety. It is important to remember that a dog with no history of anxiety can still struggle with separation or isolation if they experience significant life changes.
Are certain dog breeds more prone to separation anxiety?
While any dog can experience separation anxiety, some breeds are more likely to struggle in this area than others. Dog breeds that were intended for outdoor work or are more social, like Labradors, various Shepherds, or Collies, may have a difficult time being separated from their owners. Additionally, their need for exercise and work can increase their separation anxiety if their owner’s absences mean that they aren’t able to burn off energy. Likewise, certain types of dogs have more nervous dispositions that make separation anxiety more likely. Many smaller dogs, like Toy Poodles or Bichon Frises, fall into this category. For owners who own a dog from a breed that is prone to separation anxiety, taking extra care to prepare the dog for their absence is an important aspect of dealing with these problems.
How can dog owners treat their dog or puppy for separation anxiety?
While there is no sure way of treating separation anxiety, there are a number of different treatments that pet owners can try. Depending on the situation and medical history of your dog, you and your dog’s veterinarian can come up with a plan to provide the support your dog needs during times of separation. Some of these treatments for dog anxiety can be combined with others, whereas some options might limit your choices. Here are some examples of measures that you can use to help your dog with separation.
Toys for dogs with anxiety
As with humans, dogs can be distracted from the anxiety of separation with activities that engage their mind and body. The best toys for dogs with separation anxiety are those that are designed for independent play because they keep all the senses of a dog busy. Puzzle toys are particularly popular for dogs with anxiety. For example, some toys challenge your dog to root out treats by smell or solve balance puzzles.
When you begin giving separation anxiety toys to your dog, keep in mind that they should be given only when you’re not around. This helps your dog associate the time that you leave, normally a time that produces anxiety, with the new toy. This positive mental association can make the separation more bearable, maybe even fun! Start off by giving your dog the new toy while you’re in the next room and increase your distance gradually. If you’re lucky, your pooch won’t even notice you’re gone.
Anxiety medication for dogs
The first treatment for dogs with anxiety around separation is medication. Yes, it is true that your dog could be prescribed the same types of anxiety medications that humans are: SSRIs and other antidepressants, along with benzodiazepine, are sometimes used for dogs with anxiety. Treatment via medication can provide relatively rapid results that make it easier for your dog to stay on their best behavior when you leave the house. Dogs that formerly would bark or whine for attention might stay in their crate quietly. However, don’t share your medications with your dog — they’re prescribed in vastly different strengths, and a drug that’s formulated for a human might be much too strong for your dog.
Of course, using prescription therapy for dogs opens the door to certain drawbacks that deserve attention. Some anxiety medications for dogs have side effects you should be aware of, including lethargy, vomiting, weakness, and even increased levels of anxiety and stress — just the thing you’re trying to avoid! Additionally, giving anxiety medication to your dog could be difficult to do in a healthy manner, depending on any other treatments they might be receiving. Before giving your dog any medication for anxiety, discuss with your dog’s veterinarian whether these substances would truly be the best way to care for your dog in areas related to anxiety around separation.
Anti-anxiety dog beds
Another therapy that may work for your dog is an anti-anxiety dog bed. These beds are designed with raised rims that support your dog as they curl up and relax. This provides them a sense of security and is said to activate the nervous system, helping your dog calm down, relax faster and get deeper sleep. There aren’t really any side effects to trying dog beds designed to address anxiety, so this is a great option for an anxious dog.
Music for dogs with anxiety
One of the most common suggestions for owners with dogs who have separation anxiety is to get a white noise machine, leave the TV or radio on, or play music. It turns out that playing music for dogs with anxiety reduces stress hormones. But what kind of music is best? Reggae, soft rock, and classical music are all great choices. But make sure that you vary the genre you play! Dogs get used to background noise and will begin to tune out familiar sounds. From Bob Marley to Joni Mitchell, put on a little music to tell your dog that “every little thing’s gonna be alright”.
Natural anxiety treatments for dogs
If you’re hesitant to give your dog a pharmaceutical solution for its anxiety, you might be interested in trying a natural remedy. Pet owners have a number of excellent options, from calming chews to food supplements. The key to finding a natural anxiety supplement for your dog that really works is to look at its active ingredients. One of the best compounds for anxiety in dogs is the hemp derivative called CBD. CBD for dogs with separation anxiety can be given as a treat or as a liquid in their food, and it is an appropriate treatment for either long-term use by your dog or for specific events that cause anxiety in your dog, like thunderstorms or fireworks.
Can CBD help with separation anxiety in dogs and other dog behavior problems?
If you are searching for a way to treat your dog for separation anxiety, why not try a natural supplement first? SeaPet’s CBD Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract is a great choice for any dog owner. It’s easy to give to your dog, and it’s an effective treatment as well. Anecdotal evidence shows great success when used for reducing anxiety in dogs. Additionally, there is new research on the efficacy of CBD for anxiety in dogs taking place every day. Because CBD is an all-natural ingredient, it interacts well with most other treatments. CBD for dogs can help your dog better handle separation, whether they are a mature dog or a puppy. Helping your dog handle separation effectively can provide you with peace of mind and improve the quality of life of your dog. If you’re interested in finding out what CBD can do for your dog with separation anxiety, visit SeaPet and pick up the best CBD available today.
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