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Separation Anxiety

Posted on August 3, 2010 by Christine Antles

Every morning when I leave the house, Emerson sits perched at the window and watches me leave. A mellow dog at heart, he does a good job keeping himself entertained during the day. Unlike Emerson, some dogs have a difficult time being left alone. Separation anxiety is a common—but very surmountable—challenge; in fact, years ago I had a Boxer mix, Finn, that—no joke—once tore apart most of a recliner while I was gone for only a few hours. To rectify some of Finn’s behavioral problems, I read up on the topic and implemented the tactics I thought would work best for her. Finn suffered from acute separation anxiety, coupled with an exuberance common of young Boxers. This can be a dangerous combination. While Finn had many redeeming qualities, her daytime destruction was not one of them.

It’s important to recognize that your dog is not trying to “punish” you for leaving him/her alone at home. In fact, more than likely, if your dog has separation anxiety, he/she is simply responding to a state of panic at being left alone. In these situations, a little empathy and patience goes a long way.

According to the Humane Society of the United States (and of course, my own personal experience with Finn), signs of separation anxiety include:

• Digging and scratching at doors and windows in attempt to reunite with you.
• Destructive chewing or soiling (in otherwise housetrained dogs).
• Exhibiting depression or anxiety as you prepare to leave the house.

The cause of this condition is complex and can be brought about or worsened by a change in routine, a generalized anxiety disorder, trauma, and/or being left alone for the first time, among other causes. Speak with your veterinarian at the first signs of separation anxiety. Many methods exist to reduce the destructive behaviors, including behavioral training, environmental changes (such as leaving the television or radio on), providing toys that keep your dog occupied, minimizing the impact of your entrances and exits and leaving an article of clothing that has a familiar scent (like an old t-shirt).

Fortunately, Finn’s anxiety was controllable using these methods other than medication. In most cases, your veterinarian or dog behaviorist will suggest medication only after other methods don’t provide relief.

About Christine Antles

Christine Antles works at Banfield's main campus in Portland, Ore. as an external communications specialist. She has a three-year-old Lhasa Apso mix, Emerson, who she adopted from the Oregon Humane Society about two years ago. View all posts by Christine Antles → ← Adding Up Those Extra Calories Update on Jake’s Yowl →

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