User:Npodstawska/Separation anxiety in dogs

Cause[edit]
While we don't know the direct cause of separation anxiety in dogs, the following risks factors have served as potential triggers for the disorder:


 * a traumatic event
 * a lack of a routine as well as a change in routine
 * positive reinforcement of an unwanted behavior
 * major life change (e.g., new home, new baby, death of a family member, abandonment to a shelter)
 * extreme attachment or dependency on the owner

Treatment[edit]
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety are often "owner addicts." Setting boundaries can boost a dog's confidence when away from the owner.

Various techniques can help dogs cope with separation anxiety:


 * Leaving and returning home calmly without exciting the dog
 * Providing an exercise regime
 * Practicing the routine of leaving the house to desensitize the dog
 * Feeding the dog before departure
 * Leaving the radio/TV on
 * Medicating the dog

Additionally, it is worth noting that there are a few discouraged techniques such as crating as well as general scolding/punishment. This is due to the fact that since the issue with separation anxiety in of itself is not rooted in disobedience, it would prove to be ineffective to punish a dog since it would not be addressing the issue of separation that the dog feels. Another discouraged technique is adopting a companion for your dog, since it isn't loneliness that the dog is experiencing, but more so an issue of separation from the dog's owner.