How To Deal With Separation Anxiety In Puppies

Raising a puppy can be an incredibly rewarding, life changing experience experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges.

One common issue that many new puppy owners face is separation anxiety. It is important that dog owners learn how to deal with separation anxiety in puppies in order to get the best out of their dogs.

Separation anxiety in puppies refers to a condition where a dog experiences intense distress and behavioural abnormalities when left alone or separated from their primary owner.

According to Silbermann, J. and Gansloßer, U, separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioural problems seen in dogs, affecting an estimated 14-40% of the canine population worldwide.

For puppies specifically, the prevalence of separation anxiety is even higher, with some estimates suggesting up to 50% of young dogs experience this issue to some degree (American Kennel Club, 2021).

So why are puppies susceptible to developing separation anxiety, and what can owners do to effectively manage and overcome this challenging behaviour?

Understanding Separation Anxiety in Puppies

At its core, separation anxiety in puppies is a condition characterised by a dog’s excessive attachment to their owner or primary caregiver.

Puppies, in particular, form very strong bonds with the people they spend the most time with, and the prospect of being separated from these loved ones can trigger intense distress and a variety of problematic behaviours.

According to Konok et al, the key defining features of separation anxiety in dogs include:

1. Excessive vocalisation (barking, whining, howling) when left alone or separated from the owner.

1. Destructive behaviour, such as chewing, digging, or scratching, often focused on exit points like doors and windows.

1. Inappropriate urination or defecation, even in house trained dogs.

1. Excessive salivation, panting, or pacing when the owner is preparing to leave.

1. Attempts to escape or follow the owner when they are departing.

1. Remaining in a distressed state until the owner returns.

These behaviours are the dog’s way of expressing their extreme anxiety and panic at being left alone.

It is worthy of note that occasional whining or excitement when an owner leaves is a normal puppy behaviour and does not necessarily indicate separation anxiety.

The key distinction is the intensity and duration of the distress, as well as the puppy’s inability to calm down until the owner returns.

Prevalence and Impact of Separation Anxiety in Puppies

Separation anxiety is an extremely common issue in the canine population, with studies suggesting that it affects up to 40% to as high as 50% of dogs (Storengen & Lingaas, 2015).

For puppies, the prevalence is even higher, with some estimates indicating that greater than 50% of young dogs experience separation anxiety to some degree.

The high prevalence of separation anxiety in puppies can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, puppies are naturally more vulnerable to developing attachment issues and anxiety due to their young age and limited life experiences.

Secondly, many new puppy owners inadvertently reinforce clingy behaviour by giving their puppy constant attention and failing to properly acclimate them to being alone.

The impact of separation anxiety can be significant for both the puppy and the owner.

Puppies suffering from separation anxiety often exhibit distressing and potentially destructive behaviours, such as excessive vocalisations, inappropriate urination/defecation, and attempts to escape their confinement.

These behaviours can lead to damage to the home, injury to the puppy, and complaints from neighbours, all of which can create significant stress and frustration for the owner.

Moreover, the emotional distress experienced by the puppy can have long-term consequences on their overall well-being and behaviour.

Puppies with untreated separation anxiety may develop additional behavioural issues, such as fear, aggression or compulsive disorders, and may struggle to form healthy attachments with other people or animals.

Predisposing and Risk Factors for Separation Anxiety in Puppies

While separation anxiety can affect any puppy, certain breeds and individual characteristics may predispose some dogs to a higher risk of developing this condition.

Understanding these risk factors can help owners be proactive in addressing separation anxiety before it becomes a significant problem.

Breed Predisposition:

Some dog breeds appear to be more prone to separation anxiety than others.

According to (Tiira & Lohi, 2015), the breeds with the highest risk of separation anxiety include:

1. Labrador Retrievers (27.8% prevalence)

1. Shetland Sheepdogs (20.2% prevalence)

1. German Shepherd Dogs (19.3% prevalence)

1. Vizslas (31.2% prevalence)

1. Australian Shepherds (32.1% prevalence)

The researchers hypothesise that the increased prevalence of separation anxiety in these breeds may be linked to their strong attachment to their owners, as well as their high energy levels and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Age and Developmental Stage:

Puppies are particularly vulnerable to developing separation anxiety, as they are still in the critical socialisation period and are forming strong bonds with their owners.

Separation anxiety is most commonly seen in puppies between the ages of 8 to 18 months, as this is the time when they are transitioning from complete dependence on their caregivers to greater independence.

Previous Traumatic Experiences:

Puppies who have experienced traumatic events, such as being abandoned, re homed, or experiencing a significant change in their living environment, may be more prone to developing separation anxiety. These negative experiences can create a deep-seated fear of being left alone or separated from their new caregiver.

Lack of Socialisation and Training:

Puppies that have not been properly socialised or trained to be comfortable being alone may be more likely to develop separation anxiety. Owners who fail to gradually acclimate their puppy to being left alone or who provide constant attention and affection can inadvertently reinforce clingy behaviour and separation distress (Storengen & Lingaas, 2015).

Medical Conditions:

In some cases, separation anxiety in puppies may be linked to underlying medical issues, such as pain, cognitive dysfunction, or sensory impairments. It’s essential for owners to rule out any potential physical causes with their veterinarian before addressing the behavioural component.

10 Strategies for Managing Separation Anxiety in Puppies

Addressing separation anxiety in puppies requires a multifaceted holistic approach that combines behaviour modification techniques, environmental management, and, in some cases, veterinary intervention.

Here are 10 proven strategies to help your puppy overcome their separation anxiety:

Gradual Desensitization and Counterconditioning:

One of the most effective ways to manage separation anxiety in puppies is through a process called gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning.

This involves slowly exposing the puppy to brief periods of separation, while simultaneously pairing the experience with positive reinforcement, such as treats or toys.

The goal is to help the puppy associate being alone with positive outcomes, rather than with distress.

Start by leaving the puppy for just a few seconds, gradually increasing the duration over time. Provide the puppy with a puzzle toy or chew to occupy their attention, and give them a high-value reward when you return.

This helps the puppy learn that being alone is not a threat and can even be a positive experience.

Create a Comfortable, Safe Environment:

Ensuring that your puppy’s environment is comfortable, secure, and free from potential triggers can help alleviate separation anxiety.

Provide them with a designated “safe space,” such as a crate or a quiet room, where they can feel at ease when left alone.

This space should be equipped with familiar bedding, interactive toys, and any other comforting items that help the puppy feel safe and relaxed.

Additionally, consider using calming aids to help soothe your puppy’s nerves.

Avoid placing the puppy’s safe space near high-traffic areas or windows, as these can be sources of anxiety-provoking stimuli.

Establish a Predictable Routine:

Puppies thrive on routine and predictability, as this helps them feel secure and in control of their environment.

Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, exercise, and other activities, and try to maintain this routine even when you’re away from home.

This can help reduce the puppy’s anxiety about when you’ll be leaving and returning.

When it’s time for you to depart, follow the same calm and consistent pre-departure routine, such as putting on your shoes or grabbing your keys.

This can help the puppy anticipate and prepare for your absence, rather than being caught off guard.

Provide Sufficient Exercise and Enrichment:

Regular physical and mental stimulation can be a powerful tool in managing separation anxiety in puppies.

Ensuring that your puppy receives adequate exercise and enrichment activities before you leave can help them feel more relaxed and content when left alone.

Consider incorporating activities like long walks, playtime, and interactive toys or puzzle feeders into your puppy’s daily routine. A well-exercised and mentally stimulated puppy is less likely to become bored, restless, and anxious when left alone.

Use Distraction Techniques:

When you need to leave your puppy, try to provide them with a strong distraction to shift their focus away from your departure. This could involve leaving them with a food-stuffed puzzle toy, a chew bone, or a frozen Kong filled with their favourite treats. The goal is to occupy their attention and prevent them from becoming anxious as you leave.

Be sure to introduce these distraction items gradually and associate them with your departure, so the puppy learns to anticipate something positive when you’re about to leave.

Implement The “Nothing in Life is Free” Approach:

The “Nothing in Life is Free” (NILIF) approach is a training strategy that can help reinforce the idea that your puppy’s access to attention, affection, and resources is contingent on their calm and obedient behaviour.

This means that before your puppy receives anything they want, such as treats, playtime, or access to you, they must first perform a simple obedience command, like “sit” or “wait.”

By consistently implementing the NILIF approach, you can help your puppy learn that being calm and relaxed, rather than anxious or demanding, is the key to getting their needs met.

This can help reduce their separation anxiety and reinforce your leadership role in the relationship,

Consider Medication or Supplements:

In some cases, medication or natural supplements may be necessary to help manage severe separation anxiety in puppies, particularly in conjunction with behavioural modification techniques.

Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medications or recommend natural supplements like pheromones or melatonin to help reduce your puppy’s stress and anxiety when left alone.

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate treatment plan for your puppy’s specific needs. Medication should be used as a temporary measure to support the long-term behavioural training, not as a standalone solution.

Provide Positive Reinforcement Training:

Positive reinforcement training can be a powerful tool in helping your puppy overcome separation anxiety.

By rewarding calm, relaxed behaviours with treats, praise, or access to desired resources, you can reinforce the behaviours you want to see and gradually reshape your puppy’s response to your departures.

This might involve rewarding your puppy for remaining calm as you put on your shoes and leave, or for quietly resting in their designated safe space while you’re gone.

Consistent, patient training can help your puppy learn that being alone is not a threat, and that good things happen when they remain calm.

Utilise Calming Aids and Technology:

In addition to the strategies mentioned above, there are various calming aids and technological solutions that can help manage separation anxiety in puppies. These include:

- White noise machines or calming music to mask external sounds that may trigger anxiety

- Video cameras or pet cameras that allow you to monitor and interact with your puppy remotely

- GPS trackers or smart collars that can help locate your puppy if they attempt to escape

These tools can be used in conjunction with behavioural training to provide a more comprehensive approach to managing separation anxiety.

Seek Professional Guidance:

If you’ve tried the strategies outlined above and your puppy’s separation anxiety persists or worsens, it’s advisable to seek the guidance of a certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist.

These professionals have specialised training in diagnosing and treating complex behavioural issues like separation anxiety, and they can develop a customised treatment plan tailored to your puppy’s specific needs.

Working with a professional can help ensure that your puppy receives the appropriate interventions, medications (if necessary), and long-term support to overcome their separation anxiety successfully. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling to manage your puppy’s distress.

Way Forward

Separation anxiety in puppies is a common and challenging issue that can have significant impacts on both the puppy’s well-being and the owner’s quality of life.

By understanding the definition, prevalence, and risk factors for separation anxiety, as well as implementing a comprehensive management strategy, owners can help their puppies overcome this condition and develop into confident, well-adjusted dogs.

Remember, with patience, consistency, and the right interventions, most puppies can learn to cope with being left alone, allowing them to enjoy a fulfilling and anxiety-free life.

If you’re struggling with separation anxiety in your puppy, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a professional to ensure your puppy’s needs are met and their behavioural challenges are addressed effectively.