Remedies for Dog Separation Anxiety

Dog separation anxiety is a real problem for many dogs and their owners. Some dogs will bark incessantly when you leave, while others will destroy items in your home as a result of their anxiety. Dog separation anxiety can range from mild to extreme, but there are measures you can take to help alleviate dog separation anxiety. Many holistic remedies can be very effective.

One way to reduce separation anxiety is to avoid fawning over your dog when you arrive and depart from your residence. A dog will experience separation anxiety when he is used to constant attention. Perpetually providing a dog with constant attention as you come and go will make the dog upset when your return is delayed. So, reducing some of this attention will make any separations easier for the dog to handle. Also, walking in and out the door in short intervals will teach your dog that when you leave, you will invariable come back. When you mix a few of these “pretend” departures and arrivals into your regular routine the dog will slowly become less anxious. Mainly, this is because the dog will begin to understand when you leave it is not forever.

Boredom combined with excess energy can also expedite separation anxiety. Exercising your dog regularly can circumvent this. If the dog receives a decent amount of regular exercise then the dog will not bristle with energy that might manifest during a separation period. The huge benefit to this is that the dog will not exhibit any potentially destructive behavior. However, it is also wise to secure the dog in an area where it can not do any damage. Rather than having the dog destroying the living room of a home, placing it in the basement is a wiser option. Or, if you lack such a room placing the dog in a decent sized crate/cage will work. Also, leaving the radio on while the dog is alone in the room might aid in making the dog feel less lonely.

Separation anxiety is not due to disobedience or lack of training. It is an instinctive behavior and should not be punished. The key to treating this problem is to gradually train or condition your dog to get used to your absence. When you leave home or return home make it a low key event.

There are many different holistic alternatives for the treatment of dog separation anxiety. They can be found in most health food stores and are widely available on the Internet. If you are interested in finding the best treatment for your dog, you may want to discuss your treatment options with your veterinarian or holistic practitioner.