It’s human nature to get connected with people we spend time with, and dogs are no different. For your dog, everything starts with you and ends with you. Moreover, some dogs get extremely attached to their pet parent, and while it’s a good thing, it may also be damaging for their mental health. You might think it’s adorable that your dog wants to spend all his time with you, but the moment he gets clingy, it becomes a point of concern.

Most dogs rely entirely on their pet parents, so they’re bound to get nervous when you leave the house. However, this behavior is extreme, and they end up developing anxiety because of this. Therefore, keep on reading to find out if your dog has separation anxiety and how to handle it.

Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog gets extremely attached to their human pal. So much so that he will get anxious just at the thought of his human leaving the house. Whining and barking is still normal, but if your furry pal shows destructive behavior and starts getting aggressive, he could possibly have separation anxiety.

There are various reasons for the dog to behave in such a way, so read the following point to see why your dog has developed separation anxiety.

  • Abandonment Issue – Abandonment issue can be one of the reasons for separation anxiety. Dogs, especially shelter dogs, have had a rough past. Most of them are abandoned, transferred from one shelter to another, and being treated in a bad manner. Thus, when you try to leave your pooch for a temporary period of time, he will get nervous thinking he’s going to be alone all his life.
  • Losing a Close One – If there’s any elder person or anyone with whom your dog was very close, he could get anxiety when the said person leaves. Such dogs don’t cope with separation that easily, and neither can they understand that not everyone will be there for them forever.
  • Change in The Routine – Most dogs prefer to live according to a specific schedule, so any alterations in their routine can lead to anxiety. Change in job timings, shifting to a new home, etc can distress the dog as it all happens very swiftly for them.

Signs and Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

  • Loud bark, howls, and whining
  • Destroying things in the house
  • Chewing furniture like curtains and the couch
  • Rapid pacing around the house
  • Excessive drooling and salivating
  • Trying to get out of the house

Keep in mind that your dog will do this only during your absence. Your furry pal will be extremely well-behaved around you, but once you leave the house, he will turn into a devilish creature; chewing and tearing off anything that he comes across.

How To Treat Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Below are some points you can consider if your furry companion has mild anxiety –

  • Leaving a cloth that smells like you beside him.
  • Play with him before you leave so he doesn’t miss your presence.
  • Treat him with his favorite food and treats before leaving for the day.
  • Whenever you go out of the house, do it very quietly so your pooch doesn’t get a sniff of it.

Even after this if your furry pal doesn’t calm down, there are products that can make the process smoother. DAP Adaptil Spray and Adaptil Collar are two products that are specifically designed to relieve the stress and calm down the pet during anxiety and stressful conditions.

If the condition is worse, then you need to pay a visit to your vet to figure out other options for treatment. It’s crucial to pay heed to any behavioral changes in your dog as these things can have an immense effect on their mental health. Thus, always ensure your buddy is not only physically fit but is also mentally fit.