If you have ever had a dog who struggled with being alone, you probably have received all kinds of suggestions as to what caused it and how to resolve it. Just like the internet, well-meaning friends and family have all kinds of advice, much of which can be inaccurate and even harmful. Here are some common misconceptions and the causes and solutions for separation anxiety.
Common Misconceptions About What Causes Separation Anxiety
“It’s just a phase. He will outgrow it”.
If you have just brought a puppy or rescue home, she will certainly need to adjust to her new environment. During this time, hyper-attachment and other behaviors can certainly occur. These may resolve over time as the dog becomes more settled in the new home. But, in the case of true separation anxiety, your dog needs your help in overcoming this often-debilitating experience.
“It’s your fault. You spoil him.”
This is often the response when a dog owner describes their dog’s anxiety. While “spoiling” a dog can lead to certain unintended consequences, separation anxiety is not one of them. Separation anxiety is just that, a state of anxiety in which the dog truly panics while being left alone. It is often not understood what causes this issue for specific dogs.
“Certain breeds are more prone to separation anxiety.”
There is no data to support specific breeds being more prone to SA. Data does exist, however, that supports genetics and early life experiences (or lack thereof) being leading contributors to SA.
“She is just angry at you for leaving her home.”
There are a variety of behaviors that a dog with SA will exhibit, some which will affect the owner more than the dog. House soiling, destroyed walls and furniture, and excessive howling that disrupts the neighbors will certainly affect the owner. Because we don’t like these things going on in our homes, we automatically think the dog did it to get back at us. Now, it is possible with some of these behaviors that the dog is looking for an opportunity for an outlet which can only happen when the owner is not watching (pillows, anyone?), and this certainly should be ruled out. But, in the case of SA the dog is in a panic, particularly when the exhibited behavior persists over a period of time.
Common Ineffective Remedies for Separation Anxiety
“Put him in his crate. That will calm him down and keep him from destroying things”.
Many dogs love their crate and it’s a safe place to have them while the owner is out. However, for a dog with SA, the crate can be a terrifying place. Some dogs will escape, even if they injure themselves in the process. And purchasing an “anti-escape” crate is not the answer either. As someone who can be claustrophobic, the idea of being put into something I can’t get out of is horrifying.
“Let him cry it out”.
This is also a common response. With true anxiety, this is not something that is going to help the feeling go away, in fact it will make it worse. If you have ever seen video of this behavior when a dog has been left alone, it’s heart-wrenching to watch.
“Turn on some music or the TV”.
While this stimulation can be welcoming for many dogs, it will not resolve a dog’s SA. In addition, this can often become what we term a “departure cue”, which is something that occurs right before the owner leaves. Dogs pick up on these cues, to the point where the mere act of turning the TV on triggers anxiety.
“Give him a toy or a stuffed Kong”.
Just like music or TV, many dogs benefit from this stimulation during an absence. But with true SA, this may or may not help only in the short term. Do you ever eat when you are anxious? The dog may eat as well. But the food will quickly run out and then there is nothing left to do but feel anxiety.
Separation anxiety in dogs is horrible for the dog and the owner. There are many misconceptions about causes and remedies, some of which can be harmful. Some sources promise quick fixes at a high financial cost to the owner. Be sure to find a reputable trainer or behavior consultant to help with this issue. Your dog will thank you for it.
