Definition
Separation anxiety is defined as the display of destructive behavior, vocalization, salivation, urination and/or defecation by dogs when left alone or separated from their owners. It is fairly common in dogs and can be extremely distressing to owners, contributing even to surrender of their pets to animal shelters or elsewhere. Canine separation anxiety is a medically recognized condition that involves extreme panic and agitation when a dog is separated from its person.
How Separation Anxiety Affects Dogs
Pets of all ages, gender and breeds have been diagnosed with this disorder. Pets that have suffered from abuse and neglect seem more likely to develop separation anxiety. The primary complaints of owners of dogs with separation anxiety are destructive behavior (chewing couches, carpet, walls, etc.), barking and/or inappropriate elimination in the house. Often, dogs suffering from separation anxiety have unexplained bouts of diarrhea. They may howl, whine and try to escape from wherever they are kept when their favorite person is not around. Other signs include depression, lack of appetite, drooling, panting, whining, barking, pacing, hiding, shivering, shaking, pacing, lick lesions, attempts to prevent the owner from leaving the house or other excessive attention-seeking.
Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
The cause of this disorder is frankly unknown. However, the cause of the clinical signs clearly is the dog being separated from its person.
Preventing Separation Anxiety in Dogs
All companion animals should be maintained in the most stress-free environment possible, with the highest quality diet and regular exercise and companionship. Why certain dogs develop separation anxiety remains a mystery.
Special Notes
The best treatment for separation anxiety is intense behavior modification, for both the affected dog and its owners. In severe cases, prescription medications may be used to help the animal cope with separation anxiety symptoms. The prognosis for dogs suffering from separation anxiety is excellent. While it can take many months of continual behavioral modification techniques before the condition is completely resolved, pets usually begin to respond immediately and return to normal eventually.