Separation Anxiety in Dogs: What is it and How Do You Deal with it?
Now that most of us are staying at home due to the lockdown restrictions of COVID-19, dogs are loving the fact that their beloved owners are spending a great deal of time with them.
But what happens when everything goes back to normal? Vets are concerned that dogs are likely to suffer from separation anxiety as a result of being around their humans on a 24/7 basis for months on end.
It’s fair to say that separation anxiety is a little more severe than occasional whining or barking when you’re not at home. It can become an acute condition that may lead to psychological damage if the necessary steps aren’t taken. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs include:
- Excess howling
- Having ‘accidents’
- Pacing obsessively
- Injuring themselves
- Causing destruction
- Vomiting
What Can You Do to Help Your Dog Overcome Separation Anxiety?
Create a Safe Space
Most dogs fear being away from their owners, firstly because they aren’t getting any attention, and secondly, because they don’t feel safe in their surroundings. With this in mind, it would be best to make their space as comfortable and secure as possible.
Stair gates are a good starting point in allowing your dog to overcome severe separation anxiety. As these barriers are low and provide visibility between the bars, your dog will be far less fearful when left alone, as opposed to being shut away by a solid door.
As dogs love to chew, toys are a great way of keeping your dog busy and are shown to reduce their stress levels. If you live in a particularly busy area, it would be advised to turn on the radio or TV to provide background noise as a way of muffling any outside sides and prevent your dog from barking.
Anxiety Medication
If your dog is showing several symptoms of distress when you aim to leave the house, you could consider purchasing tasty CBD oil treats to reduce extreme anxiety. CBD is a natural substance that’s developed from cannabis and has been proven to have a calming effect in both animals and humans. CeeBeeDoo offers 100% natural CBD treats that are both tasty and boost health and well-being.
Training
Your dog can’t get used to being alone if you don’t carry out a bit of training first. While in the house, do a trial run as though you were off to work, but instead, carry on with your usual household routine. This will give you the chance to see how your dog reacts when you’re not in their immediate surroundings.
If you find that your dog is struggling to cope, enter the room but refuse to give your pooch any form of interaction. In doing so, they’ll gain an understanding that you’re not about to give them attention which makes your company less enticing. Repeat this process until you feel they have been well-prepared for your absence.