Some dogs get upset when their pet parents leave. After all, they generally don't like to be left alone or be apart from their best friend. How can you tell whether your pup is merely bummed you're running an errand or is suffering from something more serious? Use the following tips to spot separation anxiety in dogs and help restore their calm when they're feeling most lonely.
Is It True Separation Anxiety?
Dogs with separation anxiety go beyond simply pouting or whining when you leave them. Separation anxiety manifests in destructive or self-harming behavior that can include soiling in the house, tearing up their surroundings and even occasionally injuring themselves while attempting to get out. Other symptoms include vocalizing excessively, refusing to eat or drink and incessant panting or salivating. Many pups with separation anxiety don't respond well to being crated either.
It's important to keep in mind, though, that many of these symptoms can also reflect other conditions, which makes separation anxiety hard to properly diagnose. If your dog relieves themself in the house while you're gone, for example, there are still a number of possible causes — including improper house training or incontinence due to a physical condition. Excessive panting, salivating and refusing to eat or drink could also signal another medical condition such as dehydration. Some dogs also simply have rambunctious personalities that turn items in their surroundings into collateral damage.
The key is to determine whether these behaviors only occur when your dog is left alone, and to rule out familiar causes such as a medical condition or the dog's age and personality. In the case of separation anxiety, destructiveness is usually specific to the desire to escape. Chewing your favorite pair of shoes while you're gone, on the other hand, is often them just being a dog. But if they chew and scratch the wallpaper, they may very well be desperate to get out — a telltale sign of separation anxiety in dogs. Another sign is if these are new behaviors that your dog hasn't normally exhibited, especially if you are away more often than in the past.
Tasty Tips
Preventing This Stress
Although it remains a mystery as to what causes certain dogs to feel this way over others, some triggers have been identified. According to Pet Health Network, these include:
- Over-attachment to their human guardian due to how they were raised as a puppy
- Underlying emotional issues such as fear and nervousness
- Having been rehomed or spent time in a shelter or kennel
- Sudden change in household routine or structure, such as the loss of a family member or other pet
As far as it's in your power to do so, helping your dog cope if they're faced with any of these scenarios will prevent them from developing separation anxiety in the first place. Planning to board them at a kennel for a few days while you're out of town? Ease into it ahead of time by taking them there to visit, and leave a favorite toy or an old tee-shirt covered in your scent to comfort them during their stay. And if any major changes occur at home, be sure to lavish attention on your buddy to help reassure them they're still safe and secure.
If your dog is already suffering from separation anxiety, the key to treating the disorder is to help them overcome their "fear." Best Friends recommends pretending to leave the house by putting on your shoes and coat, grabbing your keys and heading toward the door as though you're about to leave — but don't. Do this as many as ten times a day until you begin to notice a change in your dog's behavior. An experienced dog trainer or animal behaviorist may be able to help you determine solutions, too. In the meantime, your dog's veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medications to help calm them while you work on nudging their reactions in a better direction.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) also points out that it's important to provide your pet with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Vigorous exercise, daily walks and interactive play can all go a long way toward keeping their confidence once you leave. Providing mentally stimulating toys, such as food or puzzle toys, gives them something to keep their mind occupied with in your absence. And of course, showering your dog with love and attention when you're with them will remind them they can depend on you no matter where you are. If you suspect they have separation anxiety, talking to your vet about the signs is a good starting point. With a proper diagnosis, an action plan can teach them to overcome it. By consistently carrying out that plan, your pal stands an excellent chance of having calmer, happier alone time.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Natural Soft Savories Beef & Cheddar Dog Treats
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Duck Formula Wet Dog Food
Limited ingredient dog food to support your dog's food sensitivities
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Salmon & Vegetable Medley Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory salmon and vegetables
Hill's Natural Soft Savories Chicken & Yogurt Dog Treats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the superior nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Related articles
Do Dogs Sweat? How Your Dog Keeps Their Cool
Learn if your dog sweats like you do, how hot dogs keep themselves cool and signs that your dog might be overheated.
Why Is My Dog Sitting on Me? Five Possible Reasons
Are Dogs Really Color Blind?
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
Effective Ways to Curtail Your Dog's Excessive Barking
Learn the reasons why your dog might be excessively barking, as well as how to train him to recognize when to stop.
Does My Dog Need A Winter Coat?
You pile on layers when it's cold out, but do dogs need winter coats, too? Learn how breed size & your dog's age can help you decide if it's a good idea.
What Does Dog Pointing Mean?
Why do dogs point? Discover what your dog is telling you with his nose and which breeds are naturally suited for training to point.
Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt: it can be a random occurrence or a regular thing, so learn what to do if you notice this behavior and if you should visit the vet.
Can My Dog Eat Pizza?
Learn whether it's safe to share a slice of pizza with your dog, which ingredients can cause health issues, and how much is a concern if he does eat some.
5 Signs You Have a Spoiled Dog
Discover whether you might have a spoiled dog on your hands and learn alternative ways to show your pup that you love them.
Assessing the Proper Nutrition Your Adult Dog Needs
Different dogs at different ages and life stages have different nutritional needs. Learn about the unique nutritional and health needs of your dog.
Dog Breeds That Can't Swim & Why
Learn why some dog breeds are not strong swimmers, which specific breeds might struggle in water, and water safety tips if you have one of those breeds.
What is My Dog Thinking About?
Wonder what your dog is thinking about? Learn about the way your dog's brain processes information compared to a human & what your intonation means to him.
My Dog Ate Soap: What Should I Do?
Discover what to do if your dog ate soap, including the warning signs to look out for and when to bring them to the veterinarian.
Ataxia in Dogs: Types, Symptoms & Treatment
Learn about the medical condition ataxia in dogs, including common signs like incoordination, as well as types of the condition and how its treated.
Why Is My Dog Shaking? 6 Common Causes for the Shivers
If you're noticed your dog shaking and shivering, you're probably wondering if there is something wrong. Learn common reasons why and what you can do.
Dog Jumping: Why They Jump & How to Train Them Not To
Learn common reasons why dogs like to jump on you, interesting facts about breeds that jump the most & highest, and how to stop their jumping behavior.
How Can I Stop My Dog From Chewing?
Learn the real reasons why your dog likes to chew on your stuff and some effective ways you can control his crazy chewing habits.
Worms in Dog Poop: Signs, Treatment Options & Prevention
Learn how to identify different types of worms in your dog's poop, how worms can affect their health & what vets may recommend for treatment & prevention.
How to Talk to Dogs (and Know if They Understand You!)
Discover how to talk to dogs in a way they can understand and learn common physical responses you may notice when talking to a dog.
Tips for the First Few Weeks with Your New Puppy
Ensure that you're meeting all of your new puppy's needs by learning typical puppy behaviors in the home.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.