Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation anxiety is a condition in dogs where they exhibit stress and behavioral problems when left alone. It manifests through a range of symptoms including excessive barking, whimpering, or howling; destructive behavior such as chewing furniture or doors; attempts to escape; house soiling; and excessive salivation or panting. These behaviors typically occur when the dog is separated from their owner or left alone for periods of time.
Behaviors that can reinforce or cause separation anxiety include excessive attention from the owner, changes in the owner's schedule, moving to a new home, the loss of a family member or pet, or lack of proper socialization during a dog's formative months. Owners may inadvertently reinforce the anxiety by giving too much attention when leaving or returning home, or by punishing the dog after returning home to find destructive behavior.
A behavior modification plan to correct separation anxiety involves several steps:
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Gradual desensitization: Slowly increase the amount of time the dog spends alone, starting with very short periods and gradually increasing the duration. This helps the dog learn that being alone is not something to fear.
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Create positive associations: Pair the experience of being alone with something enjoyable, like a favorite treat or toy. This can help the dog associate the owner's absence with positive experiences.
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Establish a routine: Consistent feeding, walking, and play times can help reduce anxiety by providing structure and predictability.
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Avoid dramatic departures and arrivals: Make leaving and returning home low-key to minimize the stress of separation.
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Provide mental stimulation: Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular exercise can help keep the dog mentally engaged and reduce anxiety levels.
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Counterconditioning: Use treats or toys to distract the dog and create a positive association with the owner's departure cues, like putting on a coat or picking up keys.
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Calmer Canine Device: The Calmer Canine device is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted pulsed electromagnetic field (tPEMF) technology to help soothe dogs experiencing anxiety. It is designed to be worn around the dog's neck, delivering calming waves that can reduce the overall stress levels and mitigate the symptoms of separation anxiety. The device is typically used for a prescribed duration during periods when the dog is most likely to experience anxiety.
Calmer Canine Info
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Professional help: In severe cases, consulting a veterinary behaviorist or a professional dog trainer may be necessary. They can provide tailored strategies and, if needed, suggest medications to alleviate anxiety.