So, you adopted a dog during quarantine or are spending a tremendous more amount of time with your little one at home. Thankfully, a round of fetch in between Zoom work calls and daily walks outside has helped keep you sane. Meanwhile, your quarantine dog has developed a strong sense of attachment to you and consequently may suffer from separation anxiety.
Here are some signs that your little one has separation anxiety:
1. Destructive Chewing
Chewed up cords, blankets, or the wall, destructive chewing is the most common sign of separation anxiety. Whether you keep your dog in their crate or roaming in the living room while you are away, chewing especially on items that they are not supposed to is a way to ease their anxiety. Beware, this can result in injuries to their teeth or consumption of dangerous household items.
2. Potty Accidents
If your potty-trained dog has accidents while you are away, this is a sign of separation anxiety. Your little one may have stomach upsets or a speedy digestive track because of stress from your absence. It is a good idea to continue to encourage your dog to potty before departure and lay out a potty pad for easy cleanup.
3. Barking & Howling
You have received noise complaints of persistent barking or howling from neighbors while you are away. This is normal response from your dog and can be triggered by an unfamiliar environment, sight, or sound. If your little one barks excessively when separated from you, this is a sign of distress.
4. Escaping
Damaged crates, chewing at the door, or excessive digging, there is evidence of an escape attempt from your little one. Escape attempts are common especially when your dog is confined to a small space when alone. This can result in damaged nails, paws, and teeth.
5. Loss of Appetite
You give your little one treats in an effort to pass their time and ease anxiety while you are away. Yet, when you return home, these treats are violently tossed aside and untouched. If this is inconsistent with their normal eating behaviors, your dog is experiencing an uneasiness that results in a loss of appetite while you are away.
It is important to note that these behaviors are a symptom of distress and occur when you are not home.
Quarantine is a dream come true for dogs. Owners working and spending more time at home translates to long days filled with snuggles and attention to dogs. Yet, quarantine has also created a pack of dogs that are dependent on this amount of attention and develop an immense attachment to their humans.
Luckily, there are ways to ease separation anxiety. It may be helpful to practice departure with your dog and the routine of putting shoes on, getting the keys, and nearing the door, all without ever leaving. This will help your dog understand that these departure cues do not always mean extensive time away. Another good step is to practice out of sight time by standing on the other side of a door from your dog. Out of sight time can help improve your dog’s tolerance to a separation time.
Easing separation anxiety is a process that will take time and practice. Be patient with yourself and your dog. After all, your little one just misses you.
