Separation anxiety describes dogs that usually are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors such as vocalization, destruction, or house soiling when separated from the owners. It's more than a little whining when you leave or a bit of mischief while you’re out. It's a serious condition and one of the main reasons owners get frustrated with their dogs and give them up. But there are plenty of things you can do to help.

First, understand what causes your dog to act this way:

• Being left alone for the first time or when he’s used to being with people
• Change of ownership
• Moving  from a shelter to a home
• Change in family routine or schedule
• Loss of a family member

 

Signs of Separation Anxiety

A dog who has it shows a lot of stress when he’s alone. He might:

• Howl, bark, or whine to excess
• Have indoor "accidents" even though he’s housebroken
• Chew things up, dig holes, scratch at windows and doors
• Drool, pant, or salivate way more than usual
• Pace, often in an obsessive pattern
• Try to escape

How to Treat It

First, talk to your vet to rule out any medical problems. Sometimes dogs have accidents in the house because of infections or hormone problems or other health conditions. It also could be due to incomplete housebreaking. And some medications can cause accidents. If your dog takes any drugs, ask your vet if they are to blame.

How to Prevent It

Separation anxiety might be prevented by ensuring that puppies have scheduled times where they learn to spend time alone in their own crates or beds. Some dogs appear to have separation anxiety but are afraid to be home alone because something bad has happened to them while alone (e.g., storms, fireworks). Dogs that have both separation anxiety and noise or storm phobias will need treatment for both problems.