Signs Your Furry Pup Has Separation Anxiety and How to Help Them
As responsible pet owners, it is important for us to understand and address the emotional needs of our furry friends, including dealing with separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a common issue many dogs face when left alone, and it can result in destructive behavior, barking, whining and other unwanted actions. As the leading provider of doggy daycare and boarding services in the area, Sierra Canine has vast experience in dealing with this problem. We have compiled a list of signs that indicate your dog might have separation anxiety, and we hope to offer some helpful tips to help you and your fur baby, overcome and cope with this issue.
Signs of Separation Anxiety
Often, dogs that suffer from separation anxiety become extremely clingy and follow their owners everywhere they go, even to the point of following them to the bathroom. They often show excessive distress when left alone, barking, whining, or even chewing through doors and furniture. Other signs of this type of anxiety include pacing, drooling, and panting. Some dogs may even go as far as having potty accidents, regardless of their potty training. If you are noticing any of these behaviors in your furry pup, it is time to seek help.
Tips to Help Your Pup Overcome Separation Anxiety
There are several different ways to help your furry friend cope with separation anxiety. One is to train your dog to become comfortable on its own gradually. Start small, leaving your pup alone for short periods, gradually building up to longer periods. Try to make the area where your dog will spend time alone as comfortable for them as possible, perhaps by adding comfortable bedding and familiar toys. Another option is to look at the type of anxiety meds available. Some pet owners prefer a more natural approach to calm their pup, like aromatherapy or calming scents, that help reduce the anxiety. Always remember that medication should never substitute professional advice.
Seek Professional Help
If the above tips are not helping, it's time to seek help from an experienced dog trainer or behaviorist. It is important to find a professional who has experience in treating separation anxiety in dogs. The expert will work with you to develop effective strategies to overcome anxiety and provide therapy for you and your dog. Modern technology has also enabled you to monitor your dog's activities with cameras and speech to message. This allows you to speak and message your dog calming words of reassurance where they can hear it.
Solidifying Your Bond with Your Pet
The bond between you and your furry pet is essential in building trust and providing comfort. Although we can't be with them all the time, doing simple things like talking to your pup, petting and playing with them, taking them for a walk, or providing them with new toys can offer much comfort in their time of need. Remember that the process of overcoming anxiety is not instant but requires patience, consistency, and love.
In summary, separation anxiety is a severe issue that can cause significant distress for both pet owners and their dogs. At Sierra Canine, we understand the emotional needs of pets, and we are always willing to help pet owners or to point them in the right direction. It's important to be aware of the signs of anxiety and to seek professional help when necessary. Always offer constancy, love and support to your furry friend, and eventually, you will succeed in overcoming and healing your pup's separation anxiety.
As responsible pet owners, it is important for us to understand and address the emotional needs of our furry friends, including dealing with separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a common issue many dogs face when left alone, and it can result in destructive behavior, barking, whining and other unwanted actions. As the leading provider of…