If you have to leave your dog on his own it can bring on separation anxiety, this is usually caused by over-dependence on an owner. It can be the result of being weaned too early, being abandoned, or simply due to the temperament of the dog.
You leave your dog alone for just twenty minutes while you run to do some shopping and when you return he's emptied the rubbish onto the kitchen floor, destroyed a pillow or had a pee in your hallway. If this sort of behaviour happens frequently your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety.
Over-dependence
Separation anxiety is common in dogs and is usually caused by over-dependence on an owner. This dependence can be the result of being weaned too early, being abandoned, or simply due to the temperament of the dog.
It is a difficult but not impossible condition to treat. And, with patience you can overcome the destructive behaviour associated with separation anxiety completely.
What to look out for
The types of behaviour commonly associated with the problem are urinating and/or defecating in inappropriate places, destructive chewing and pawing, excessive barking or whining, a refusal to eat or drink, self-chewing or self-licking.
When you return home there is usually a prolonged, over-enthusiastic greeting too.
Punishment isn't the answer
Punishing your dog is the last thing you should do in this situation. He won't be able to associate the mess he has made while you were out with the punishment he receives a few hours later. Your dog may appear to act guilty but this is simply submissive behaviour - dogs don't feel guilt but they can anticipate a punishment.
Looking down, tucking his tail between his legs, slinking, showing his belly, these are all ways your dog shows submission, not guilt. Basically, he is saying "Hey, I know you're the boss. Don't beat me up." Punishment only treats the symptoms of separation anxiety and not the root cause.
Tasty Tips
Come and go
The best way to deal with the problem is to decrease the dependence and anxiety your dog is feeling. This can be done simply by getting your dog used to people coming and going in the house.
When you leave, don't make a fuss or a big deal of saying goodbye as this will only increase his anxiety. Similarly, when you return, give him a calm greeting only after he has calmed down.
You could even try some 'practice' entrances and exits from the house to get him used to your movements. Do this several times a day and go through the whole routine as if you're actually going to leave.
Jingle your keys, pick up your bag or briefcase, put on your jacket and head out of the door. You could even hop in the car and drive around the block. After a minute or two, return.
As your dog gets used to these short outings, gradually increase their duration. Your goal is to be able to leave the house and return again without your dog working himself into a frenzy or misbehaving when you're gone.
Once you can leave him alone for an hour or so you should be fairly confident about leaving him for an entire morning or afternoon.
Just ignore him!
If you continue to have trouble with your dog you may need to tackle the dependency directly. This is tough, because it calls for ignoring your dog for a week or two.
Ask someone else to feed, walk and play with him, or better still, get a few people to do so. It won't be easy to ignore your dog, especially when it's desperately looking for your attention, but after a few weeks you'll find he is much less clingy.
As always, if you're having difficulty with your dog you should consult a vet who will be able to determine if your dog's misbehaviour is caused by separation anxiety or some underlying medical condition.
They may also be able to recommend a good behaviour specialist to help resolve the problem.
Related products
Medium Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Medium Breed Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
100% balanced nutrition to support optimal growth & the immune system.
Medium Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Medium Breed Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
100% balanced nutrition to support optimal growth & the immune system.
Small & Mini Puppy Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Small & Mini Breed Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
100% balanced nutrition to support optimal growth & the immune system.
Small & Mini Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Small & Mini Breed Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
100% balanced nutrition to support optimal growth & the immune system.
Related articles
Kidney Disease in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Discover the causes, signs, and treatments of kidney disease in dogs and find methods of supporting your dog's kidney health. Learn more at Hill's Pet South Africa.
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behaviour
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
Dog Bitten by a Snake? Clinical Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn about snake bites on dogs, including clinical symptoms to look for, what to do if you think your dog was bitten, and treatment & prevention options.
What should I do about my overweight dog?
Dog obesity is a significant problem - learn more about helping your dog become trimmer and healthier through improved nutrition.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.