Separation anxiety

Have you ever comes across separation anxiety in dogs? Our dog seperation tips and advice can help you work out if your dog displays any of the various behaviour which may indicate they are suffering from dog separation anxiety (seriously!). The three most common are destructiveness, within minutes of you leaving them as well as howling and barking within half an hour of your departure, and being over excited when you return.

Many people may not be aware of the fact their dog is constantly barking, or howling when they are way. Until your neighbours begin to complain that is. But if you go away from the house and your dog resorts to destructiveness and over excitement, these are two very good indications that your dog is suffering from dog separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is the fear of being alone, and is one of the top causes for dog's misbehaving. A pup will form an attachment to its mother, and siblings, it's normal. When you remove them from that environment, it is you who takes on that role. Separation anxiety occurs because your dog has formed a strong bond with you.

Forming a trusting relationship with your pet is good, but it is not good to allow them to become too dependant upon you. Some dogs not only become destructive and bark; they will also defecate and urinate where they shouldn't. However, if it is not obvious that this behaviour happens whilst you are gone, a quick visit to the vet is advisable to check there are no medical reasons for their behaviour.

If you believe your pet is suffering from separation anxiety, you must take action to alleviate the problem as it does not just go away. If you have a puppy, avoid problems occurring by not developing over attachment; get them accustomed to being alone, whilst young.

This creates a healthier, less dependant, relationship later on, an animal behaviourist will, almost certainly, be able to help, if separation anxiety has developed. Most importantly, remember, you dog is not being bad, he is a victim of a disorder, just as any human being can be. And, like any similar human disorder, it has to be treated, to be corrected.

You will need to put time in with your animal, if you really want to help them, and you.