Treating Puppy Separation Anxiety:

You Can Have a Calm Stress-Free Dog

What’s the best way of treating puppy separation anxiety? Is it dog behavior modification training, crate training, medication or even doggy yoga?

You’re heading out the door and your puppy isn’t having any of it. He cries, he whines, he barks, he gives you that look that melts your heart into a thousand pieces. Then when you come home you find he’s got laryngitis from barking all day and he’s destroyed your expensive throw pillows and 2 pairs of shoes.

Ruh Roh! Now What?

What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs? If your dog is exhibiting signs of severe pet anxiety, the first thing you should do is see your Veterinarian to ensure that there are no physical reasons for your dog’s behavior and symptoms.

Is your dog exhibiting any of these classing signs?

• Whining
• Pacing
• Digging
• Excessive drooling
• Barking or howling
• Hyperactivity
• Scratching
• Chewing
• Potty training issues
• Destructiveness

If so, what do you do? What is the best way of treating puppy separation anxiety? Unfortunately, there isn’t one method that works best for all dogs. Some breeds are more prone to this problem than others and may need more than just some basic training.

But there are several methods that have been proven to be successful in treating puppy separation anxiety:

Do’s:

1. Leave him alone for short little breaks at first so he gets used to it little by little. Gradually increase the amount of time you leave him alone.

2. When you are home with him, make it quality time. Play with him, take him for long walks, and just let him hang out with you and your family.

3. Provide interesting toys and treats for him to play with so he won’t get bored while you’re gone.

4. Give your dog lots of exercise before you leave. It's been proven that dogs who get lots of activity are more calm and content.

5. If exercise isn't an option before you go out, try mental exercise like obedience training. A 10 minute training session can have the same effect.

6. Some dogs calm down by listening to classical music. Experiment with different kinds of music to see if your dog responds positively.

7. If your dog is crate trained, which is recommended, you may want to leave him in the crate where he will feel safe and calm.

8. Try herbal remedies like Rescue Remedy that calm and sooth your dog's anxieties.

9. Let your dog know that you are the pack leader and have everything under control. Your dog will feel less frightened and anxious if he knows he doesn’t have to be in charge.

10. Be patient and consistent.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t isolate your dog by keeping him in a room locked away from the rest of the family. If you keep him in a crate, keep the crate in the room with you.

2. Never punish your dog for separation anxiety symptoms; it will only exacerbate the problem.

3. When you leave the house, don’t make a huge deal of it by giving him lots of extra hugs and attention. Just be calm and casual.

4. Don’t leave your dog alone for very long periods of time. If you have to be away for most of the day on a regular basis, you may want to consider a pet sitter or doggy daycare.

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