3 Myths About Separation Anxiety In Dogs
When it comes to separation anxiety in dogs the internet is awash with misinformation. As a certified separation anxiety trainer who has been helping dogs all over the world recover from separation anxiety for many years I hope this helps dispel some of the more common myths.
Myth 1: Dogs with separation anxiety have been spoiled.
This is not true. Dogs of all breeds and backgrounds can develop separation anxiety. It is not caused by “spoiling” a dog, but rather by a combination of factors, such as genetics, early experiences, and environmental stressors.
I’ve heard the term “spoiling” to include meeting dogs basic needs such as giving affection freely, inviting your dog onto the bed or couch, giving lots of treats and snacks and more. Please know there is no evidence to link this to separation anxiety. Keep loving your dogs as you see fit.
Myth 2: Getting a second dog will help a dog with separation anxiety.
This is not always the case, really it rarely is. In fact, in some cases, getting a second dog can make separation anxiety worse. Sometimes the two dogs may become dependent on each other for companionship and when one dog is left alone, the other dog may become anxious or destructive. In some cases the newer dog may also also become less comfortable when alone due to the resident dogs anxiety related behaviors.
Myth 3: Crate training can cure a dog with separation anxiety.
Crate training can be a useful tool for some dogs in general, but it is not a cure-all for any behavior challenge. In fact, for many dogs with separation anxiety crate training can actually make the distress worse. This is because the crate can become a symbol of confinement and anxiety.
If you think your dog may have separation anxiety, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or certified separation anxiety trainer. They can help you develop a treatment plan that is right for your dog.
Here are some additional tips for helping a dog with separation anxiety:
Start by trying to reduce the amount of time your dog is left alone with a goal of suspending absences (your dog cannot handle without panic) entirely during any training. Enlist the help of friends, family, pet sitters, daycare and more!
Gradually expose your dog to being alone for short periods of time, always watching on camera to ensure they aren’t going into panic. Return as soon as possible if they are in distress.
Provide your dog plenty of physical and mental enrichment to ensure needs are met and help with relaxation during training and future alone time.
Create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog that minimizes reactions to outside triggers and allows access to favorite resting places.
If your dog's separation anxiety isn’t improving you may need to seek professional help.
Develop a plan with a certified separation anxiety trainer and/or vet behaviorist to gradually expose your dog to alone time at a rate they can handle.
With time and patience, you can help your dog overcome separation anxiety.
Think you might need professional help? Melissa with A Canine Affinity helps people all over the world regain their freedom by helping their dogs recover from separation anxiety through individualized gradual desensitization training plans. For more check out www.acanineaffinity.com
Melissa Dallier is a multi certified positive reinforcement based dog trainer living in Roswell, GA with her husband and 2 senior dogs. When she isn’t helping dogs and puppies overcome separation anxiety she enjoys her houseplants and gardening, seeing live theater and spending time with family and friends.