Understanding and Managing Separation Anxiety in Dogs

It's not fully understood why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and others don't. Remember a dog's behaviors are part of a panic response.

What is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety happens when a dog is more than a little whining when you leave or a bit of mischief while you’re out. It's a serious condition and one of the main reasons owners get frustrated with their dogs.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

• Accidents when housebroken
• Excessive chewing, digging, scratching
• Obsessive pacing
• Bark, howl and/or whine to excess

Any dog might do some of these things once in a while, but one with separation anxiety will do them almost all the time.

How to Treat

Firstly a vet should be consulted to rule out any medical problems. If you dog is taking any prescriptions, ask your vet if they can be to blame.

• Don't make a big deal out of arrivals and departures
• Leave your dog in a room with a window and plenty of toys
• Provide recently worn clothes that smell like you

Supplements

There are also calming supplements available that can help reduce separation anxiety in dogs. Here at Muntech Products, we manufacture our Travel & Calming Aid.

What Not To Do

• While formal training is always a good idea, separation anxiety isn't the result of disobedience or lack of training.
• Punishment isn't effective for treating separation anxiety and can make the situation worse.
• Your dog will still engage in anxiety responses inside a crate and can even injure themself in an attempt to escape.