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Separation anxiety is also known in the dog training world as owner absent misbehavior. This is one of the most frequently encountered problems with dog owners. Separation anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways. Chewing, destroying the owner’s property, excessive barking, self destructive behavior and inappropriate urination and defecation are all signs. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your dog cope with separation anxiety.
The Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Dogs
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 unknowingly encourage this misbehavior. They rush home to reassure the dog. The dog needs to learn to deal with extended periods of separation, though.
How you leave the house can often contribute to separation anxiety issues. None of us like leaving our dogs but a long and drawn out good bye can make matters worse. This can make the dog feel even more isolated when you 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.
How To Help Your Dog Cope With Separation Anxiety
1. Make your dog feel happy and safe.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, you need to address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring, the dog needs to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while you are away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the dog plenty of things to keep him busy while you are away. This means providing him 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.
2. Schedule play times.
Setting aside scheduled play times, is another great way to alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. During these play times your dog should have your undivided attention. Playing with the dog and providing him 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 and patiently wait for the return of his owner.
It is important to schedule one of these daily play sessions before you leave the house each day. It is vital to give the dog a few minutes to settle down after playtime before you leave too.
3. Get your dog used to you leaving.
For dogs that are already experiencing separation anxiety, it is important to get him used to you leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and returning at irregular intervals. Do this several times during the day. Doing so will get your dog accustomed to your departures. It will 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 when you leave, it’s not permanent.
Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety when they can’t be with their 
owners. Using some of the tips that we have shared today can help your dog deal with separation anxiety. Once your dog is comfortable with being left alone, both you and your dog will have an easier time when you have to leave him home alone.
