As a technician and a canine foster parent, one of the subjects that I deal with most often is separation anxiety in dogs. While this issue is extremely common and often fixable, it definitely doesn't feel like it when that dog is your responsibility. If you're currently struggling with an anxious pup, take a deep breath, and keep reading.
Separation anxiety can present itself in multiple ways and range widely in degree of severity. While some dogs might just whine and pace, others develop tendencies toward self mutilation or destruction of property.
The first thing to examine is your own behavior. Dogs feed off of their humans, and they are excellent at reading our emotions and anxiety levels, even if you think that you appear perfectly normal.
For mildly anxious dogs (pacing, whining, barking, drooling, shaking, etc.), we typically recommend using a chewable supplement called Composure that contains L-Theanine, Thiamine, and Colostrum. For many dogs, including multiple fosters that I've had, these chews have been the key. It's a great place to start prior to jumping into stronger medications, since there are typically no associated side-effects. Chinese Herbs might also be recommended and can be used in combination with Composure Chews if needed.
For some dogs, particularly those with more severe anxiety, chews and herbal formulas might not be enough. For those dogs, there are multiple medications that can be prescribed to help provide relief, and in the most severe cases, certified behaviorists can help to identify and correct specific problems. Often, owners will be hesitant to medicate their dogs, thinking that this will diminish their quality of life. In reality, the exact opposite is often true. Living with anxiety is NO fun, especially with the dogs that get stressed out enough to injure themselves. Start with the basics, and be sure to discuss your dog's individual case with your veterinarian. We know that this is stressful for both you and your pet, and we are here to help you!
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The first thing to examine is your own behavior. Dogs feed off of their humans, and they are excellent at reading our emotions and anxiety levels, even if you think that you appear perfectly normal.
- When leaving the house, DO NOT make a production out of it. Unlike humans, dogs don't need a lengthy goodbye and a slow exit, and this can add to their stress. Instead, put them in their designated area with a long-lasting treat such as a frozen peanut butter filled Kong, and leave without speaking.
- You can ease into an exit strategy by leaving for varying amounts of time and providing a reward upon your return. Walk out the door for only a few seconds, then come right back in and provide a treat or affection. Gradually increase this to a few minutes, then a few hours. With consistent positive reinforcement, your dog will begin to understand that you will come back, and that great things happen when you do.
Next, be sure that you are providing your dog with enough stimulation, both physical and mental. Not unlike humans, dogs that sit around and do nothing have a whole lot of pent-up energy, and they get BORED! That energy and boredom is then channeled into destroying your couch cushions.
- Walk or run your dog regularly. Most dogs don't get anywhere close to the amount of physical exercise that they need. Every breed and age group is slightly different in their requirements, so be sure to ask your veterinarian what your dog's individual needs might be.
- If your dog gets along well with other dogs, consider the possibility of providing them with a playmate. Some dogs just don't like being alone, and having a partner can ease their worry. (Before committing to a new canine companion, however, you can test this theory with a friend's dog or a temporary foster.) If adding another pet to your pack is not an option, doggie daycare is a fantastic alternative! We recommend Suite Paws Pet Resort.
- Provide mental stimulation for your dog. At most pet stores and online, you can find a variety of puzzle toys and treats that are capable of providing hours of entertainment for your canine companions.
For mildly anxious dogs (pacing, whining, barking, drooling, shaking, etc.), we typically recommend using a chewable supplement called Composure that contains L-Theanine, Thiamine, and Colostrum. For many dogs, including multiple fosters that I've had, these chews have been the key. It's a great place to start prior to jumping into stronger medications, since there are typically no associated side-effects. Chinese Herbs might also be recommended and can be used in combination with Composure Chews if needed.For some dogs, particularly those with more severe anxiety, chews and herbal formulas might not be enough. For those dogs, there are multiple medications that can be prescribed to help provide relief, and in the most severe cases, certified behaviorists can help to identify and correct specific problems. Often, owners will be hesitant to medicate their dogs, thinking that this will diminish their quality of life. In reality, the exact opposite is often true. Living with anxiety is NO fun, especially with the dogs that get stressed out enough to injure themselves. Start with the basics, and be sure to discuss your dog's individual case with your veterinarian. We know that this is stressful for both you and your pet, and we are here to help you!
Comments? Questions? Reply to this post below! We would love to have your input on any and all of our posts.
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