Your Dog Can Suffer Separation Anxiety.

Many dog owners incorrectly assume that a dog is behaving badly when the dog is actually suffering from separation anxiety. The dog with separation anxiety may howl loudly when the owner leaves, may whine insessively, or may even leave a mess from destructive behavior while you are gone. These character traits are unusual in that they don't occur when you are home. The dog only does the misbehavior when you leave him/her. If this happens you may be dealing with a dog with separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety can occur most often when the dog has developed a close relationship with the owner and then the owner changes schedule and leaves the dog alone for longer periods than normal. This longer period of separation may create a separation anxiety in the dog when the dog does not understand why the owner is leaving the dog or if the owner will return. The dog becomes confused by this longer period of separation and fears what may happen. The dog can become not only confused but also frightened. The dog may even become angry enough to lash out at the owner by destroying property, or by making messes by raiding the garbage or leaving feces on the floor. This type of behavior by the dog at the owner's absence can leave the owner feeling frustrated, bewildered and even angry at the dog.

The vet can diagnose separation anxiety and the owner can learn to address the issue and take corrective actions that will ease the dog's fear.

The owner can learn how to prepare the dog for the owner's departure, the owner can give lots of attention and praise to the dog when the dog learns step by step to accept the absence of the owner. There are many positive awards the owner can use to reinforce good behavior when the owner is gone such as using treats, verbal praise, and increased playtime.

To prepare your dog for when you leave the house it is important not to play with or give the dog an unusual amount of attention just prior to your departure, as this will only intensify the dog's loss. You do need to prepare the dog for your absence by distracting the dog with a new toy, or other pleasurable experience so that when you are gone the dog is occupied. The diversion will take the dog's mind off of your absence. If you are consistent in giving your dog pleasurable toys or other distractions while you are gone your dog will soon learn to associate good things with your departure.

Did you know that your dog desires human contact? Use this knowledge to put your dog at ease during your absence. What will remind him of your presence? If you usually play a radio while you are home, try leaving the radio on while you are gone. The familiar sound of music just may soothe your dog during your absence. Use a TV in the same manner. By giving your dog pleasure in the form of toys or treats and by providing lasting distractions such as a radio or TV you will be helping to relieve separation anxiety and both you and your dog will be happier.