Why do dogs have separation anxiety?

Dogs have certainly made a great difference to people's way of life. Dogs form a legendary bond with humans thus it is not surprising if these animals are considered as man's best friends. Dogs are truly man's wonderful companion as aside from being loyal and affectionate they also form a strong bond with their owners. Dogs are different from aloof cats as these pets are very dependent on their owners.

Dogs would thrive well in a situation where they are constantly given attention and where they are allowed to be in the company of the human family. Because of this, dogs are dubbed as Velcro pets. Ironically, this close tie dogs have with humans is the reason why many of these animals are abandoned by their owners and end up in animal shelters or even euthanized. Separation anxiety causes dogs to be problematic pets because they turn destructive.

Barking, chewing, digging, house soiling are normal canine behaviors that a dog owner has to put up with. However, this normal canine behaviors becomes excessive in dogs suffering from separation anxiety. When a normally well behaved dog manifests inappropriate behavior like excessive barking, chewing and digging when separated from its owner, it is highly likely that the dog is suffering from separation anxiety. Severe cases of separation anxiety can make the dog jump through windows, mutilate the body and cause serious destruction every time the owner is not around.

What causes dogs to have separation anxiety? Being social creatures, dogs would always love to interact with all the members of the family. Dogs are seen following their masters around. Because of the close bond, dogs would want to be with the master always as when the master is not seen the dog would have panic attacks. It is necessary for dog owners to take the role of the leader of the pack. Dogs, especially those with weak willed owners would think of themselves as the leader of the pack and consider humans as pack members lower in rank. Dogs that consider themselves as the leader of the pack suffer from separation anxiety when separated from the owner.

Generally dogs that have a separation anxiety disorder are dogs that were abandoned and abused. Dogs that start to be destructive as soon as the master leaves home are suffering from separation anxiety disorder. The destructive behavior of a dog suffering from separation anxiety will be triggered if the master is seen taking the coat, picking up the car keys and opening the door.

To protect your furniture from your dog that is suffering from seperation anxiety try using a pet scat mat or spray deterent.

Sarah's Dogs has more information about dog separation anxiety and dog first aid.