🐾 Identifying Signs of Separation Anxiety

Before addressing the problem, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms, which may include:

• Prolonged barking or howling when you leave the room.

• Scratching, chewing, or destroying furniture, doors, or windows.

• Urination or defecation indoors, despite being house-trained.

• Panic behaviors such as excessive panting, trembling, or drooling.

• Attempts to escape, which may result in injury.

These behaviors usually occur when the dog is alone and disappear as soon as you return.

🏡 Understanding the Causes

Separation anxiety can stem from several factors:

• Past trauma: dogs that have been abandoned or experienced long periods of separation.

• Changes in the environment: moving house, a new pet, or a new family member.

• Excessive attachment: some dogs form a very strong bond with their owner, making separation difficult.

🐕 Strategies to Manage and Reduce Anxiety

1. Gradually accustom the dog to being alone
   Start with very short absences and gradually increase their duration. The goal is to teach the dog that you always return and that being alone is not dangerous.

2. Create a safe space
   Set up a comfortable area with their bed, toys, and possibly a piece of clothing with your scent. This becomes a reassuring refuge.

3. Use distractions
   Interactive toys, chew treats, or food puzzles can occupy the dog during your absence and divert attention from anxiety.

4. Keep departures and arrivals calm
   Avoid dramatic scenes when leaving or returning. Ignore the dog for a few minutes before you go and after you return to prevent increasing excitement or panic.

5. Desensitization and counter-conditioning training
   Associate your departure with something positive, like a treat or a special toy. This gradually changes the dog’s perception of separation.

6. Consider professional support
   If anxiety is severe, a veterinarian or dog trainer can offer behavioral therapies or even temporarily prescribe solutions to reduce stress.

🌟 Long-Term Prevention

• Stable routine: dogs feel safer with regular meal and walk times.

• Physical and mental exercise: a tired dog is less anxious. Walks, play, and mental stimulation exercises are essential.

• Gradual socialization: get the dog used to meeting different people and being alone from a young age.Separation anxiety can be stressful for both the dog and the owner, but with patience and appropriate methods, it can be reduced or even overcome. The key is to understand your pet, respect their pace, and provide tools to feel safe even in your absence.

For dogs from a shelter or rescue organization, or recently adopted dogs, it is particularly important to give them time and patience to help them adjust to their new home. With perseverance, your companion can learn that being alone is not dangerous, and that a successful adoption can lead to long-term happiness.