Does your dog stick to you like glue?
Read about the difference between isolation distress and separation anxiety and what you can do if your dog only has eyes for you.
Part of what we love about dogs is their companionship. After all, dogs are known for their loyalty and friendship, and it feels really nice when your dog shows how much they love and miss you when you’re gone. But for some dogs, this love and attachment can turn into a problem – and this problem is called separation anxiety.
Isolation Distress vs. Separation Anxiety
Before we talk about how to help dogs who struggle to be separated, let’s make sure we’re on the same page with some definitions. Typically, dogs with separation-related problems fall into two categories.
Isolation distress refers to a dog who experiences panic when left alone but is comforted by the presence of anyone else, as long as they aren’t completely alone. This means that pet sitters, friends, family and daycare are all potential care solutions when you cannot be with your dog.
Separation anxiety describes a condition where a dog is distressed when separated from one or a few key figures in their life. This is usually one of their primary caregivers or both of them. Dogs with separation anxiety still experience distress even when left with other people. Guardians of separation anxiety dogs often suffer from isolation as they attempt to not upset their dog by leaving, and their dogs experience detrimental side effects, such as a lack of sleep and/or a constant worry that their person will leave them.
But, leaving is inevitable. People have to work, run errands and live their lives. Here are some general suggestions to help you get your life back and support your dog if they struggle with this issue. Remember, it’s important to seek help from a separation anxiety specialist for a more detailed plan.
Seek Veterinary Support
While isolation distress can be avoided using friends, family members and pet sitters, separation anxiety is all but unavoidable. Your dog will need to be left with other people sometimes, and the kindest thing you can do is to talk to your vet about how to best support them in these scenarios.
Spread the Love
It can be helpful to involve more people, such as friends, family and pet care professionals, in your dog’s routine. The goal of doing this is to teach your dog that love, comfort, food, play and other positive things are not limited to one person (you). The focus of their involvement should be to provide really positive experiences that leave your dog wanting to see them more. If your dog feels comfortable and happy with more people, you’ll be more likely to leave them with those people successfully.
Relaxation Protocols/Mat Training
Although training your dog to lie on a mat will not resolve your dog’s separation anxiety, it can be helpful to work through a “relaxation protocol,” where your dog learns that it’s rewarding to spend time on a special bed or mat. This can help decrease following/shadowing behaviour and encourage independence.
If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, you are not alone. Book a Free Discovery Call, and let’s talk about how we can improve your dog’s distress and give you your life back.
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