9 Common Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Dogs
Understanding the signs of separation anxiety in dogs will help you figure out when your dog needs help.
Separation anxiety is a common problem in dogs. It can be caused by any number of factors, including abuse or neglect.
The following are some common signs of separation anxiety in dogs:
Urinating or defecating in the wrong places
Urinating or defecating in the wrong places is a sign of anxiety, and if your dog is urinating or defecating in the house, it’s a sign that they’re anxious.
If you catch them in the act, redirect them to their appropriate spot: outside!
In addition to preventing accidents that could be costly to clean up (and potentially cause harm)
This will help keep your pup from feeling overwhelmed by their surroundings and relax into a happier state of mind.
Howling, whining, or barking frequently
You may notice that your dog is acting strangely when you leave the house.
This can be a sign of separation anxiety in dogs, especially if it happens to occur when you are gone for long periods of time.
Your dog will often whine and howl when left alone; however, other times he may just stand there looking at you like he wants something but doesn’t know what it is yet.
It’s important that you don’t push him into doing anything he doesn’t want to do because this can cause him additional stress and make his behavior worse over time!
If his behavior seems excessive or out of character for your pet but still appears normal compared with normal activities while being home then this could be an indicator of separation anxiety problems.
Which would require further evaluation by a qualified veterinarian before treatment options could be determined based on severity levels.
Escaping the crate or house
If a dog is trying to escape the crate or house, it is possible that they are feeling anxiety.
Escaping through windows and doors: If your dog has managed to get out of its crate, you may notice that they are digging under fences or climbing over them.
This could be an indication that your pet is nervous about being confined in one place for too long.
Digging under fences: If your dog has managed to dig under a fence and escape into another yard or house where they’re not supposed to go (like another person’s yard), this could also be an indication of separation anxiety in dogs
Excessive chewing
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and it’s a way for them to relieve stress.
If your dog is constantly chewing on things around the house or trying to chew through doors and windows, it may be due to separation anxiety.
If you notice that your dog has started chewing on things outside his normal routine (like furniture or shoes), then he may be bored or stressed out during his time alone.
For example: if your puppy was used to sleeping next to you every night but now sleeps in another room because of allergies or other reasons.
He could start chewing out of boredom while waiting for an opportunity when it’s okay again!
Scratching at doors or windows
Scratching at doors or windows is a natural behavior for dogs.
It’s a way of communicating with their owners, marking territory, and letting them know that they are ready to go out.
However, if you notice your dog scratching at the walls of their house more frequently than usual.
This could be an indication that he/she is anxious about going outside.
This could also be due to boredom as well which can trigger separation anxiety in dogs.
Read more: 9 Top Ways To Tire Out A Puppy.
Destroying household items
Dogs with separation anxiety may chew on furniture and shoes, blankets, or any other item that is not food.
In some cases, dogs will chew on their own paws to the point where they have to get surgery to remove the damaged tissue.
Pacing or shaking
Pacing or shaking can be a sign of separation anxiety. Some dogs may pace when they are anxious, while others will shake.
If you notice your dog pacing or shaking when you’re not around, it’s best to get him into another room where there is no one else and put him on a short leash, so he doesn’t run away.
This behavior could also be caused by excitement and excitement is something that all dogs have at some point in their lives!
Though it’s not common for dogs to have a separation anxiety disorder (SAD).
It does happen—and if left untreated can lead to severe depression and even suicide attempts.
Licking their paws excessively
Licking their paws excessively is a sign of separation anxiety in dogs.
This behavior occurs because the dog is trying to calm themselves down.
As their paws are an area that they can’t see, so licking them helps them feel better.
Read more: 9 Common Ways To Socialize A Puppy & Benefits
Hiding and/or trembling
Hiding is a way for your dog to escape the stressor.
If you’ve ever had a dog who hides under the bed or in its crate when things get stressful.
This behavior is common for dogs with separation anxiety.
Trembling is another sign that your pet has been exposed to something traumatic events.
And it can indicate fear or anticipation of some kind of negative event in the near future.
Read more: 11 Ways Of Training A Dog Not To Run Away.
Ways to prevent separation anxiety in dogs
The following are some common ways to prevent separation anxiety in dogs:
- Be consistent with training and commands.
- Create a positive reinforcement routine for your dog.
- Make sure your dog has plenty of exercise and playtime.
- Provide your dog with a secure place to sleep.
- Maintain regular socialization with other dogs.
- Avoid leaving your dog alone for extended periods of time.
- Use Positive Behavior Modification techniques to help reduce anxiety.
- Spend more time with your dog.
- Talk to your dog through pet camera while away.
- Start proper crate training sessions.
- Get a second pet.
Conclusion
If you have a dog that displays any of these signs of separation anxiety in dogs listed here, it’s important to seek veterinary help immediately.
There are many causes of separation anxiety and if left untreated, your dog can develop panic attacks or even become aggressive in an attempt to escape from this fear.
