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Separation anxiety is a condition where a dog experiences extreme distress when separated from their owner, leading to disruptive or destructive behaviours when they are left alone. Dogs are naturally very sociable animals that form strong bonds with their owners. While there are many dog friendly shops and restaurants around Kensington, we know that it’s not always possible to take your dog with you when you’re leaving home. For some dogs, they can struggle significantly when left alone.
It is important to understand that separation anxiety is different from your pup being simply bored or up to no good. It is an anxiety disorder that can cause suffering for your pet; however, with the right approach and professional guidance if necessary, it can be managed and significantly improved.
Like many other disorders, separation anxiety in dogs can vary in severity. For some it can be fairly mild and manageable through lifestyle changes. For others, it might require consistent training and a consultation with your vet.
“Separation anxiety in dogs is typically one of the most common behavioural challenges dog owners face.”
If you’re unsure whether your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety, here are some common signs to be on the look out for. Identifying these signs early can have a great impact on managing the condition and improving your pup’s wellbeing.
Dealing with separation anxiety can be challenging for both you and your dog, but there are actions you can take in order to help ease your furry friend’s distress.
This is a particularly good technique if you’re currently training a puppy. Slowly get your dog used to being left alone by leaving them initially for short periods of time and then gradually increasing. You can start with just a few minutes and work up from there – rewarding calm behaviour with praise.
Ensure that your dog has a comfortable and secure place for them to stay in when you are away. This could be a corner with their bed in, their crate or just a specific room. You can also include some of their favourite toys to make them feel even more at ease.
A tired dog is more likely to be a relaxed one, so if you have time before you leave, try and take your pup on a quick walk. Giving them mental stimulation through things like puzzle toys can help to keep your dog occupied when they’re alone too.
Play background noise such as white noise, calming music or simply leaving the TV on.
Establishing a consistent routine can help your dog feel more secure at home. This can be quite a simple thing to do, especially if you’re leaving your dog alone to go to work or to do your weekly shop.
If your dog’s separation anxiety persists or worsens despite your efforts, it may be time to seek professional help. A vet can rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to the behaviour. Severe cases of separation anxiety may benefit from a combination of behavioural therapy and medical intervention.
At Kensington Veterinary Care, we understand how distressing separation anxiety in dogs can be for both pets and their owners. Get in touch to make an appointment and one of our team can support you with expert advice and tailored treatment plans to help your dog feel happier and more relaxed.
Separation anxiety in dogs is a challenging but manageable condition. With time, patience, and the right approach, your dog can learn to feel calm and secure, even when you are not by their side!
The care and health of your pets is Kensington Veterinary Care's top priority. That is why we offer a comprehensive first opinion veterinary service for your furry friends.
Kensington Veterinary Care understand how special your pets are to you. That’s why we strive to provide only the highest quality veterinary care.
