Tips To Combat Separation Anxiety In Dogs

It isn't easy leaving your dog home alone for work or other obligations. It's especially difficult when the dog suffers from separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is one of the most difficult dog behavior issues to contend with. 

Those with an anxious dog will want to call on reliable, flexible and qualified pet services to provide their beloved four-legged friends with all they need to make their day more enjoyable.

Anxiety comes in multiple forms and once you’ve dealt with your pet’s separation issues, you should also look for ways to handle a dog affected by storm anxiety.

Signs of separation anxiety

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) states that a dog with separation anxiety will likely exhibit multiple symptoms.

One of the most common is that they’ll urinate and defecate in the home. They are also like to bark, howl and cry when you’ve left and chewing destructively is common, too.

You may also find that your dog paces and attempts to escape from confinement. It’s difficult to know for certain whether your dog is experiencing separation anxiety when you’re not there.

Therefore, it’s advisable to set up a camera to observe his behavior and to speak to your neighbors in case they notice any incessant barking or howling when you are out.

Provide entertainment

Leaving a chew toy out for your pooch to play with and packing treat toys full with your pet’s favorite treats are some of the more traditional methods of helping your dog deal with separation anxiety.

More recently, studies have found that dogs experiencing stress can benefit from listening to audiobooks and having calming music left playing in their owner’s absence.

There's even a dedicated channel called Dog TV created especially for dogs who spend a considerable amount of time home alone and who have signs of separation anxiety.

Utilize pet services

There are multiple services available specifically for individuals and their dogs who have to be apart for long periods of time. You could enroll your dog in doggy daycare where your pet will be surrounded by other pooch’s and trained staff throughout the day.

Alternatively, you may wish to keep your dog in the comfort of his own home and get a professional pet care professional to visit him a couple of times a day.

A professional dog walker is a great way of ensuring your dog gets some exercise during your absence and it will break his day up too.No owner wants to think of their pet feeling alone.

Therefore, taking steps to prevent your dog’s separation anxiety and calling in specialist services to help ease your hound’s stress is essential.

Credit: Jenny Holt