Separation anxiety is described as an apprehension or a fear your dog experiences when the owner leaves them. For example, if you, the pet owner, departs for work or even the store, anxious dogs might howl or bark. They may also have potty accidents or destroy things. Strong attachments that dogs form for owners are likely to feed into separation anxiety.
Preventing separation anxiety can start before you even adopt your puppy or dog. The first step is to allow the puppy to be weaned fully be its mom, usually by eight weeks of age. They should have some independence from the mom. Taking a puppy earlier can feed the separation anxiety.
You can start immediately on anti-separation anxiety training when you bring your pup home. First of all, when you do leave your pup alone, don't make a big deal of it. That means, don't talk to them saying that you will miss them or give them a lot of attention and petting. Start by leaving them for short periods of time at first. When you come back, don't make a big production out of it, just go about your usual routines.
If you adopt your dog and he already shows signs of separation anxiety, training could be harder but the efforts will be worth it. A lot of older dogs with separation anxiety were probably strays or shelter dogs. They have had a few tough breaks before being lucky enough to have been adopted by you. Don't give up on them. These older dogs will often be more loyal and trusting. About fifty percent of these dogs will improve with training, but changes to your routine may be necessary to ease them into the desensitization of leaving them. Dogs adapt quickly with routines.
Dogs that show separation anxiety indicators need your help in examining their situations and surroundings and finding ways to get rid of those cues which signal this behavior. Like with puppies, don't make a big ordeal out of leaving. Start these older dogs off slowly by leaving for short amounts of time and gradually work up to longer periods.
You could also provide distractions for your dog when you leave. Typically within thirty minutes to an hour, your dog calms down enough after the separation anxiety bout. If you have something to distract them for that length of time, you could help them get over that initial hurdle. Toys and chewies make for good distractions. There are also toys that you can fill the goodies like peanut butter or cheese. It takes the dog some time to get to the treat, and so they will labor until they get to it, effectively forgetting about your and their separation enxiety.
Another good option is crate training is. A crate is especially effective for those dogs that are destructive when you leave. They know that is their home and they will not tear it up. Be sure, however, not to use the crate as a punishment tool. They will start to feel negative about it. It should be their sanctuary, their home away from home. Feed them their food and treats in the crate so that they associate positive things with the crate. When you are confident enough that your dog will not be destructive while you are gone, try leaving them for a short time, but make sure the crate door stays open so they have their sanctuary available to them for comfort.
Your vet may have some other training ideas, but just remember this - separation anxiety occurs for different reasons and circumstances. Much of your dog's training will necessitate alteration in your own routines.
