How to Not Give Your Dog Separation Anxiety

There are many ways to not give your dog separation anxiety. The first thing you should do is to have a plan for when you will be leaving the dog alone. This way, they will know what to expect and they won’t be anxious when you leave. Next, make sure that you have plenty of toys and chews for them to keep themselves occupied. You can also leave them with a stuffed animal or blanket that smells like you so they can get some comfort from it.

The best way to not give your dog separation anxiety is by having a plan in place before leaving them alone.

How do I stop my dogs separation anxiety?

Give your dog at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity (for example, running and swimming) every day. Try to exercise your dog right before you have to leave him by himself. This might help him relax and rest while you’re gone. Play fun, interactive games with your dog, such as fetch and tug-of-war.^[1]

What causes separation anxiety in dogs?

A traumatic experience to the dog could be a divorce, a terrible scary storm, a large change in schedules or loss of a loved one. There are many things that can happen that the dog perceives as scary that can lead to separation anxiety.^[2]

Do dogs grow out of separation anxiety?

Usually, dogs do not outgrow separation anxiety. Very mild separation anxiety may improve over time, but that isn’t the case in most instances of moderate to severe separation anxiety. The condition has nothing to do with age, so it’s not likely to improve on its own without some sort of intervention and treatment.^[3]

What dog breeds have the most separation anxiety?

Labrador Retriever. Border Collie. Cavalier King Charles spaniel. Jack Russell Terrier. German Shepherd. Australian Shepherd. Bichon Frise. Vizsla.^[4]

How do I make my dog less clingy?

Increase exercise. A good bout of physical activity will tire your dog enough to where they have little interest in following you around. Stimulate their mind. Create a special space. Desensitize your dog to your movements.^[5]

At what age do puppies develop separation anxiety?

“In dogs, the onset of separation anxiety most commonly appears before 2 years of age. Occurrence is less frequent as dogs get older,” says Dr. Agapis, “until they reach their senior years, when age-related changes may make them feel more vulnerable.”^[6]

Should you leave TV on for dog?

The biggest negative is one that we’ve already mentioned: It could create more stress for your dog than simply being left alone in peace and quiet. Beyond that, there’s the possibility that the noise could damage their ears. Dogs have sensitive hearing, so you shouldn’t leave the TV on that loud while you’re gone.^[7]

How do I get my dog to stop whining when I leave?

Don’t make a big deal out of arrivals and departures—talk to your dog in a calm voice when you’re leaving or returning. Establish a word or action that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you’ll be back. Consider using an over-the-counter calming product that reduces fearfulness in dogs.^[8]

Why does my dog cry every time I leave?

Boredom, restlessness, fear, and separation anxiety are all common reasons that your dog might bark and whine while you’re gone.^[9]

What dog has the least separation anxiety?

Chow Chow. At first glance, this breed looks like the biggest cuddle bug around, but the Chow Chow is actually a quite independent dog. Bassett Hound. French Bulldog. Bullmastiff. Chihuahua. Shar Pei. Boston Terrier. Irish Wolfhound.^[10]

What are the signs of separation anxiety in dogs?

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.^[11]

What natural remedy can I give my dog for separation anxiety?

Play Some Music. Choose classical or easy listening music, since the idea is to help calm your dog. News radio can also work but not if the shows have excited hosts or loud debates. Use A Familiar Smell. Change Your Dog’s Diet. Exercise Your Dog. Try Some Soothing Herbs.^[12]