Does your dog behave badly when left alone?
If so, he could be suffering from separation anxiety. Here’s more information:
- Some typical types of separation anxiety behaviors are digging, chewing, or scratching at doors or windows; howling and barking; and soiling, even though the dog is housetrained. Although it isn’t fully understood why some dogs suffer from this condition and others don’t, it’s important to remember that your dog isn’t behaving badly to punish you for leaving him alone. Experts believe that separation anxiety in dogs is a panic response, and sometimes occurs for the following reasons:
- A change in the family routine–a move, a child leaving for college, or a new person or pet in the household;
- The dog has suffered what he perceives as a trauma-an injury or surgery, a kennel stay, or time spent at a shelter;
- A dog that is used to constant human companionship is suddenly left alone.
- You can help your dog overcome separation anxiety by establishing “safety cues”-words, actions, or objects that you use every time you leave your dog that let him know you’ll be back. Some examples of safety cues are a playing radio or television or a favorite toy. Practice using the cues with your dog, and remember-punishing him doesn’t help, and could aggravate the problem.
The friendly staff at Pet Supermarket can help you find everything you’ll need to keep your dog comfortable, such as training books and aids, virtually indestructible chew toys, treats, and much more. Stop in today!
