Has your dog loved having you at home all day during the COVID-19 lockdown period? If so, chances are they will be feeling it now you and your family are back at work or school.
If your dog is prone to separation anxiety anyway, this could be a particularly stressful time for them.
Here we outline some of the signs of separation anxiety in dogs, and offer tips to help your dog overcome it.
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Signs your dog may be suffering separation anxiety include:
- Biting, whining, barking or pacing
- Panting, drooling
- Self-harm (scratching, breaking nails, lick lesions)
- Toilet accidents (in a house-trained dog)
- Digging up the garden.
- Chewing things they are not supposed to chew.
- Just generally wrecking the house!
- Trying to escape
If your dog is doing these things on a regular basis when you’re out, it’s time to make some changes to how you handle separation.
How to Help Ease Separation Anxiety in Dogs
1. Being a calm leader
It can be easy to react emotionally to a dog’s anxious behaviours, such as getting angry at them, or on the other hand over-compensating with piles of affection or treats.
But dog experts everywhere tell us that being calm is a huge part of the secret to helping a dog overcome anxiety.
Dogs pick up on our emotions, so if we display that we are calm and in control, we communicate that all is well. But if your dog sees you becoming anxious, they will think there must be something to be anxious about. Likewise, if you overdo reassuring and comforting your dog, they will think there must be something to be scared of.
Professional dog trainer Graeme Hall, the man you might have seen on TV as ‘The Dogfather’, says dogs need a strong calm leader who’s in control during times of distress, just as people do. For a dog, this includes showing affection and giving praise at the right times, such as when they are calm, and ignoring when fussing.
To help this along, the Dogfather recommends making your comings and goings low drama and matter-of-fact and ignoring your dog if they whimper or bark in objection. Of course when you love your dog this can feel unkind, but it’s one of the best ways to help them know they're safe.
2. Morning exercise
A 30-minute walk in the morning before you go out can tire out your dog. This will help them to be more relaxed while you’re gone. And if they are very tired they may even go to sleep.
3. Reduce anxiety related to leaving
Your pet recognises when you are leaving the house: you get dressed, grab the keys, and go to the door. This routine can trigger stress if they don’t like being alone.
To help your dog readjust, slowly change the routine so your dog doesn’t link these cues with leaving. Get dressed and pick up the keys but put them in your pocket and sit on the couch instead. Do this throughout the day to break the association.
Once they've got the message, you can then try leaving the house in small increments, making it a bit longer each time. You should also make sure to praise them when they remains calm.
4. Mental stimulation
Dogs are pretty smart animals, and they need stimulation. A safe chew toy that keeps them occupied also enables them to associate something nice with your leaving the house.
Items like a dog treat toy stuffed with treats, such as Kong's Treat Dispensing Toy, will help keep them occupied. You should also remove the toy when you get home.
It’s also a good idea to vary the toy so your dog doesn’t become bored and gets to enjoy something new from time to time. For more enrichment ideas, check out this list.
5. Build in alone time
Spend time away from your pet each day. Work in a room where you can close the door and keep regular hours. Your dog will learn the difference between work and play time.
If your dog is anxious, start with small steps such as a door screen or gate. Encourage them to play nearby with a favourite toy. You can find our range of dog toys here to find a favourite for your furry friend. When they are comfortable, close the door or leave the room for a few seconds. Repeat this throughout the day, gradually increasing the time. Use this method inside then outside the house, at a pace that allows their independence to grow.
6. Use positive reinforcement
If your dog shows mild signs of distress, positive reinforcement can be an effective tool. Use commands such as sit, stay or relax when you are separating from your dog. Offer plenty of praise, dog treats or pats when they comply.
7.Company for your dog
If you feel it will help your dog you could consider a trusted dog-sitter to keep them company. Another option is to hire a professional dog-walker to exercise them.
Alternatively, a friend or neighbour may be persuaded to drop in for a cuddle with them during the day!
When to Seek Professional Help
Dogs are social creatures, and most don’t like being alone. So even if your dog isn’t suffering post-quarantine separation anxiety, doing some of these things can make his day better while you’re out and help keep him a happy pooch!
However, if they fail to work for an anxious dog, or you think your dog’s problem may be too severe, don’t hesitate to speak to your vet.
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, separation anxiety is not a training issue or obedience problem – it’s a medical condition. Scolding or punishing will not help and is likely to cause more distress.
If your dog shows signs of serious anxiety, see your vet. They can check for underlying medical problems and consider options such as behaviour modification and medication if needed. Natural therapies are also available but always seek advice from your vet to ensure they are suitable for your pet. You can find our range of anxiety specific products here. Again, remember to seek advice from your veterinarian to ensure they are safe for your best friend.
Keen to know more about dog training and behaviour? Keep reading the PetPost Dog Blog for all things dog and puppy.