Dog Training - Dealing with Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety, also known in the dog training world as
owner absent misbehavior, is one of the most frequently
encountered problems in the world of dog training. Separation
anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways, including
chewing, destroying the owner's property, excessive barking,
self destructive behavior and inappropriate urination and
defecation.
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety often whine, bark, cry,
howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door the entire time their
family members are away. Well meaning owners often unwittingly
encourage this misbehavior by rushing home to reassure the dog,
but it is important for the well being of both dog and owner
that the dog learn to deal with extended periods of separation.
How the owner leaves the house can often contribute to
separation anxiety issues. A long and drawn out period of
farewell can make matters worse by making the dog feel even more
isolated when the owner finally leaves. These long types of
farewells can get the dog excited, and then leave him with lots
of excess energy and no way to work it off. These excited,
isolated dogs often work off their excess energy in the most
destructive of ways, such as chewing up a favorite rug or piece
of furniture.
Excess energy is often mistaken for separation anxiety, since
results are often the same. If you think that excess amounts of
energy may be the problem, try giving your dog more exercise to
see if that eliminates the problem.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, it is important to
address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent
separation anxiety from occurring, it is important for the dog
to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while the owner is
away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the dog
plenty of things to keep it busy while you are away. This means
providing it with lots of toys, such as balls or chew toys. A
pet companion is often effective at relieving separation anxiety
as well. Giving the dog a playmate, such as another dog or a
cat, is a great way for busy pet parents and pets alike to cope
with the stress of being left alone.
Setting aside scheduled play times, during which the pet is
given your undivided attention, is another great way to
alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. Playing with the dog,
and providing it with sufficient attention and exercise, is a
proven way to avoid a stressed and anxious dog. A happy dog that
has been well exercised and well conditioned will generally
sleep the day away happily and patiently wait for the return of
its owner. It is important to schedule one of these daily play
sessions before you leave the house each day. It is important to
give the dog a few minutes to settle down after playtime before
you leave.
For dogs that are already experiencing separation anxiety and
associated misbehaviors, it is important to get him accustomed
to your leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and
returning at irregular intervals, several times during the day.
Doing so will get your dog accustomed to your deparartures and
help him realize that you are not leaving him forever. Dogs that
have been previously lost, or those that have been surrendered
to shelters and readopted, often have the worst problems with
separation anxiety. Part of treating this problem is teaching
the dog that your leaving is not permanent.