Separation anxiety is a common condition that causes dogs to experience severe stress and display panicked and destructive behaviors when left alone. In many dogs, it is not understood why this happens. However, in dogs who have suffered previous stressful situations, such as those who come from puppy mills, it is likely that this is the cause. Separation anxiety can range from minor to more serious, and the course of treatment depends upon the severity of the anxiety and the dog.
Instructions
1. Leave your dog in a crate or other small area when you are not at home. Many dogs feel comfortable in crates, as they mimic dens. Dogs who come from puppy mills may also feel more at ease in crates because they are used to being in small areas. On the other hand, your puppy mill dog may have the opposite reaction and become more frightened if put in a crate. If your dog likes the crate, put him in there for small periods of time even when you are home so that he doesn't associate the crate with you leaving. If you leave your dog in a small area be sure that he cannot destroy anything in it and can relieve himself without causing damage, as these are common separation anxiety behaviors. In addition, you may want to place him in a room with a window to give him something to look at, but only do this if you are positive he will not try to escape.
2. Give your dog a special toy to play with while you are gone, or leave him with clothes that have your scent on them. Be sure to let your dog play with these items even when you are home, so that he won't associate these items with your departure.
3. Avoid making a big deal out of leaving or coming home. When you leave, do not pet your dog excessively or give him lots of kisses -- this will only create more excitement and anxiety. Simply leave without making a production. Accordingly, do the same when you come home. Ignore your dog for a few minutes, then calmly pet and talk to him.
4. Create safety cues with your dog. These cues are words or actions that let your dog know that you will return by saying them every time you leave. For instance, saying "I'll be back" or leaving the television on can be used to let your dog know that you are coming back home to him.
5. Administer medication that can calm your dog's separation anxiety. There are many herbal products, such as Rescue Remedy, that you can use to ease your dog's separation anxiety. Your veterinarian can also prescribe drugs that can calm him down.
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