Crate aversion? Separation anxiety or something in-between?
As a certified dog trainer and behavior coach specializing in treating canine separation anxiety, there exists no greater satisfaction than reassuring a dog guardian that their canine companion is not afflicted with separation related behavior challenges. This scenario frequently unfolds when a dog or puppy exhibits disconcerting behaviors within the confines of a crate.
Before delving into the intricacies of confinement anxiety, it is imperative to clarify that I am not anti crate training. Crates can stand as invaluable management tools in specific situations and I believe it is important to help dogs foster a positive association with confinement for emergency situations at minimum. However, coercion, punitive measures, or deploying crates as a form of punishment or for longevity are practices I vehemently discourage. In instances where dogs grapple with separation-related issues, I recommend, in approximately 99.7% of cases, the exclusion of crates from the remedial equation.
Now, turning our attention to the crux of the matter...
Separation Anxiety is a distressing condition that induces profound fear, anxiety, and panic in dogs when separated from significant human companions. This may manifest through a range of behaviors that serve as indicators of their unease. Separation anxiety is typically present when dogs are alone whether in confinement or free in the house.
Confinement Anxiety manifests when a dog finds itself constrained within a confined space, be it a crate or exercise pen or even a small room like a bathroom. This induces a state of panic akin to that observed in separation anxiety or even claustrophobia in humans. Behaviors such as attempts to escape the crate, gnawing and clawing at the bars, inappropriate elimination despite prior house training, excessive drooling, and panting, among others, become evident. Notably, the crucial distinction arises when the dog exhibits a significantly higher comfort level outside of any confined space. These dogs will typically show distress in confinement whether alone or with a human companion.
It's noteworthy that many dogs suffering from separation anxiety may concurrently experience confinement anxiety, though the reverse isn't universally true.
Crate Aversion can lead to or be a result of crate trauma. An adverse emotional reaction, lack of tolerance, and/or discomfort in a puppy or adult dog as a result of being constrained without appropriate conditioning through positive reinforcement training or due to traumatic events while in confinement.
Many guardians are conflicted when a dog was previously comfortable in the crate as an aversion seems to suddenly appear. This is when I ask; have reasonable efforts been invested in cultivating positive associations with the crate? Perhaps during puppyhood, the dog was casually placed in the crate while asleep, coasting through the night without issue. However, as the dog matures to six months and beyond, reluctance towards the crate may surface. Similarly, adopting an adult dog and being informed they are crate trained and they are happy in their crate for the first several days or weeks as they decompress only to witness their anxiety increase as time goes on. These could result in Crate Aversion if not adequately managed.
So, how do we unravel the underlying complexities?
Ask yourself a series of questions about your dog’s behavior and emotional state:
Is your dog at ease within the crate or confinement when you are present?
If yes, and the issue arises solely in your absence, elements of both separation and confinement anxiety may be at play.
Is your dog comfortable being home alone, regardless of crate presence?
Hesitation to enter the crate around your departure might indicate elements of both separation and confinement anxiety. However if your dog is hesitant to go into the crate at anytime, whether your in your footie pj’s or work clothes, confinement anxiety or crate aversion could be more prominent.
Will your dog offer or choose to go into their crate without prompt or lure (food)??
While not definitive, observing whether your dog willingly enters the crate unprompted provides insights into their feelings toward the space. Some dogs who are content and happy in their crates, opt to retreat for naps, snacks, or the sanctuary of toys.
Will your dog remain in the crate with the door open?
During crate training, does your dog quickly exit when reinforcement stops? If yes, a more gradual approach or a revisit to the fundamentals of crate training may be necessary, considering confinement anxiety or crate aversion.
How swiftly does your dog exhibit signs of distress after the crate door is closed?
Dogs with pronounced confinement anxiety typically manifest signs of distress soon after being confined. While not always an explosive reaction, indicators such as panting, drooling, yawning, circling, or pacing may emerge, escalating if initial stress signals are ignored.
Will your dog eat in offered treats, bones, or enrichment toys while confined, both in your presence and absence?
Some dogs will eat no matter how stressed the are however, anorexia, or the refusal to eat in confinement, hints at heightened stress levels when alone.
Have you monitored your dog's behavior while alone via camera, both in and out of confinement?
Conducting a self-assessment through live monitoring and recording of your dog's behavior during periods of alone time offers valuable insights. This method helps distinguish between behaviors occurring in your presence versus when alone, providing a foundation for beginning training foundation.
Once the underlying issue is identified, crafting a proactive plan becomes more manageable. Early detection facilitates the start of an effective training strategy. If your dog is showing signs of distress in any of the above seeking professional assistance is recommended.
For a deeper understanding of separation anxiety, consider exploring my complimentary webinar Here. I’m also available for in depth assessments which can be a good first step in determining the root cause for these sometimes confusing and conflicting behaviors. Schedule now!
Melissa Dallier
Separation Anxiety Specialist
A Canine Affinity Dog Training
CSAT, FFCP, CPDT-KA