Lonely Dogs and Separation Anxiety

It’s never good to leave your beloved dog alone for long periods of time. Most of us are busy adults with full-time job and responsibilities, so it may be hard to be with your pets for as long as you want to be with them throughout the day. You must remember that our pets are also a part of our responsibilities. Veterinarians recommend that dogs only spend time alone for four to six hours at a time in order to sustain the best mental health. Some dogs are capable for being alone for ten hours or more, but they are usually suffering quietly. Dogs are domesticated, social creatures. They need constant love and affection.

Separation anxiety is more common than you think. Some people believe that it is mainly common in dogs that were abused or neglected in the past, but it is also common in dogs with no history of abuse. Separation anxiety may be triggered when a dog’s pet parents are away. The dog may act agitated before you leave, and they may use their cuteness and puppy dog eyes to make you stay. They may seem depressed while you are gone, but they will act like they haven’t seen you in years once they return home. Change in a dog’s schedule, household, or medication may even cause changes in their behavior. It is good to be able to recognize these changes so you can pay special attention to your fur baby.

Symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs may include:

• Urinating
• defecating
• vomiting
• barking
• howling
• squalling (French Bulldogs squall)
• destruction of the household
• chewing
• digging
• ripping toys apart
• escaping
• hiding

Recognizing these symptoms is important for your dog’s well-being.

You may do the following to improve your pet’s separation anxiety:  

• hire a pet sitter to accommodate to your dog’s needs and happiness
• leave home quietly without explanation or making a scene
• leave a piece of clothing with your scent on it on the floor for your dog to lay on
• leave the television or radio on
• leave your dog’s favorite pet toys out for them to play with
• practice leaving your dog alone for a few moments, then go back in the house without paying attention to them, then practice the absences longer each time

Being informed with facts about separation anxiety is a great start to learning how to improve your dog’s life. Knowing the symptoms may help you identify what causes their separation anxiety. Dogs are more attached to us than we may think.