How To Help Separation Anxiety
True separation anxiety is not as common as many people think. What passes for separation anxiety is, in many cases, boredom. Your dog doesn't want to be left alone because it's boring, but he probably isn't experiencing real separation anxiety when you leave him. Learn to know the difference between boredom and true separation anxiety.
Signs of real separation anxiety would be that your dog can't stand to let you out of his sight even when you're home. He follows you from room to room. He chews on things that smell like you when you're gone. Your dog uses the bathroom in the house out of stress. Your dog whines, whimpers and barks every time you leave him alone, even for less than 30 minutes. He does these things every single time you leave him alone. In short, your dog has a genuine psychological problem.
That does not describe most dogs who whine and bark when their owner leaves. For most dogs, they simply don't want to be left alone, but they can learn to get over it and get their attention on something more fun until you come back.
There are things you can do to help your dog become accustomed to spending time without you.
- Keep things low-key when you come and go. Don't make a fuss saying hello or goodbye. Stay upbeat. No tears or hugs.
Other things you can do to minimize your dog's anxiety about your leaving include practicing your leaving routine frequently, even when you're not leaving. Pick up your keys, your purse, etc., so your dog gets used to it. Go outside, start your car, come back in the house. Let your dog know that it's no big deal when you do these things. Practice some short absences, coming back in just a few minutes. Increase the time you spend away as your dog gets more comfortable.
Remember to increase your dog's exercise and mental stimulation. Encourage him to have other friends, including doggy friends. These things give him something more productive to think about and tire him out so he's not worrying about what you're doing.
Give your dog a hobby -- such as playing with stuffed Kongs or Buster Cubes. Focus on toys, not forbidden objects, before you leave your dog.
Consider crating your dog when you leave the house, or confining him to one safe area or room of the house. Leave a radio or article of your clothing for him.
If you have a dog who has true separation anxiety, you may need to consult a certified animal behavior consultant to help him. As a temporary measure, consider doggy daycare or letting your dog stay at a friend's house when you have to be out while you are helping him to deal with his separation anxiety.
Whether your dog is experiencing boredom or real separation anxiety, don't try to rush the process of helping him through it. It takes some time.