Maltese Separation Anxiety [Causes, Signs & More]

Let’s discuss Maltese separation anxiety…

Maltese is known for its strong attachment to its owners, which can lead to bouts of anxiety if the Maltese are left alone for too long.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of separation anxiety in Maltese.

We’ll also discuss how to recognize the signs of anxiety in your Maltese and what steps you can take to prevent it from occurring.

Finally, we’ll provide a few solutions to help ease your Maltese’s anxiety and make sure they stay healthy and happy.

Don’t worry I will keep this post as short as possible, keep reading!

What is Maltese separation anxiety?

Maltese separation anxiety is a condition in which a Maltese dog becomes anxious and upset when separated from its owner.

Common symptoms of separation anxiety in Maltese dogs include excessive barking, drooling, pacing, howling, and destructive behavior.

Treatment for separation anxiety in Maltese dogs typically involves crate training, providing distraction items such as chew toys, and gradually introducing the dog to longer periods of time away from its owner.

Let’s break it down further…

Causes of Maltese separation anxiety

Separation anxiety in Maltese dogs can be caused by a variety of factors some of which are attributed to their owner’s lack of care.

The most common cause is a lack of proper socialization, especially when the Maltese are still a puppy.

Other causes include a traumatic experience, such as the death of a family member, a sudden change in routine, or a change of environment.

Maltese dogs are also naturally very attached to their owners and can become anxious if left alone for too long.

This can also lead to separation anxiety in Maltese dogs.

Signs of Maltese separation anxiety

Signs of separation anxiety in Maltese dogs include excessive barking, whining, crying, or clingy behavior before you leave, and distressed or panicked behavior such as excessive panting or salivating.

Other signs include; dilated pupils, yawning, trembling, pacing, urinating or defecating in the house, and exuberant greeting when you return.

Additionally, dogs suffering from separation anxiety may become destructive or chew furniture while you are away.

If you notice any of these behaviors in your dog, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible.

Learn more about common symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs.

Preventing Maltese separation anxiety

Establishing routines and boundaries will let your dog experience low-intensity separation, which is vital to avoid Maltese dogs from developing separation anxiety.

As a preventative step for separation anxiety, crate training is advised since it helps your dog get acclimated to being apart from you for a little amount of time.

In addition, it’s crucial to keep greetings and goodbyes brief, avoid paying too much attention when leaving and arriving and exercise your dog before leaving.

Giving your dog a personal item from you, such as a cushion or t-shirt, to hug while you are away might also help to calm them down.

Learn more about preventing separation anxiety in dogs.

Fixing Maltese separation anxiety

Separation anxiety in Maltese dogs can be a difficult behavior to resolve.

One of the best ways to help them is to create a plan for leaving the house and sticking to it.

When it is time to leave, do not make a big fuss or give them too much attention.

Additionally, you can give them something like a “Bye-Bye” bone that they can focus on while you are away.

You can also confine your Maltese when you are away to help them feel more secure.

Another way of fixing Maltese separation anxiety is to spend more time with them or get them a companion pet.

Exercise can also be helpful in reducing anxiety, so taking your Maltese for a walk before you leave can be beneficial.

You can also provide interactive toys for your Maltese, teach them to watch dog movies, start proper crate training, and provide calming music for them before leaving.

Finally, it is important to avoid making eye contact or saying goodbye to your dog as this can reinforce their anxiety.

Learn more about the signs of a bored dog.

Side effects of separation anxiety in Maltese

The most common side effects of separation anxiety in Maltese dogs are excessive barking, whining, pacing, panting, chewing, and destruction of objects, and in some cases, urination or defecation.

Other more serious symptoms can include refusal to eat and drink, depression, restlessness, and self-injury.

If you suspect your Maltese has separation anxiety, it is important to seek professional help from a qualified behaviorist to determine the best course of treatment.

Treatment may include medication, environmental changes, and behavior modification.

Conclusion

The key to managing your Maltese’s separation anxiety is to give them the attention and love they need and to make sure that they have an environment that is safe and secure.

You can also use positive reinforcement techniques and provide them with toys and treats to keep them distracted and entertained.

With patience and understanding, you can help your Maltese cope with their anxiety and lead a happy and healthy life.