If your dog is destructive while you’re away or nervous when you dropped them off at a dog boarding facility, they might have separation anxiety. Vets estimate that 20 to 40% of the dogs have some sort of separation anxiety. Though this can be inconvenient, it’s possible to improve or even stop your dog’s negative behavior over time.

An Introduction to Separation Anxiety in Dogs

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Dogs who have separation anxiety get anxious when their owner leaves, even for a short period. This anxiety can cause them to behave poorly.

Some symptoms of separation anxiety that your dog might exhibit when you’re not home include:

• Destructive chewing

• Howling, barking, and whining

• Peeing and pooping inside

• Self-harm

• Scratching at windows and doors

• Pacing in an obsessive pattern

If this sounds like your dog, you should take them to a vet for confirmation. Some of these behaviors might be explained by other issues.

What Causes It?

Scientists don’t know much about dog psychology, so it’s unclear why some dogs develop separation anxiety, and others don’t. However, there are some common circumstances that cause dogs to develop this condition.

These circumstances can trigger separation anxiety:

• Being left alone after constant human contact

• Spending time at a shelter or dog boarding facility

• Changes in their family’s routine

• Loss of a family member or other pet

How You Can Treat Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety

If your dog has mild separation anxiety, small steps can help them. Don’t make a big deal when you come home or leave. When you go, give them a treat, like a puzzle toy, that they only get when you leave. You can also leave some dirty laundry out so your dog is comforted by your scent. 

If your dog’s case is more severe, you might have to do more work. If your dog can’t be left alone, send them to doggy daycare. This lets them spend time with other dogs and occupies them while you’re away. Many dog boarding facilities offer these programs.

The best way to keep them from being destructive at home is to confine them to one room. Make sure there are windows and plenty of toys available. You can place laundry in here, too. You should also speak with a veterinarian to see if they recommend anti-anxiety medication.

K9 Cabana Dog Resort & Training Center in Myrtle Beach, SC, is a 7,500-feet dog boarding and doggy daycare facility that can help alleviate your dog’s separation anxiety. Their staff are all FetchFind®-approved and pet CPR certified, and they’re available 24/7. Visit their website to learn more about their daycare services, or call (843) 748-0351 to schedule an initial meet and greet.