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1. Reducing Your Dog’s
Separation Anxiety

2. Introduction
• Barking
• Whining
• Scratching and
destroying property
• Escaping from crate
• Defecating/urinating
in home
Separation anxiety is a common condition that is exhibited by dogs in the
event that the owner leaves them for a certain period of time. The dog is
distressed and may display some of the following problem behaviours:

3. Introduction
Not all dogs are the same and neither is
every relationship between dog and
owner. As such, techniques to
overcome separation anxiety will have
to be tailored for each specific case.
Most cases require professional help
but as a pet owner there are steps you
can take to help alleviate some of your
pooch’s separation anxiety.

4. Causes of Separation Anxiety
There are several different causes of separation anxiety although
sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint the exact origin.
Over-indulgence is a typical cause of separation anxiety where
the owner applies incorrect conditioning and the pooch is not
used to being alone. The dog is stressed until reunited with the
owner.
Lack of exercise is also a common cause of separation anxiety,
where high energy levels are maintained and not released. This
energy, along with the mental anguish associated with separation
results in problem behaviour.

5. Tip #1
You cannot expect your dog to overcome
their anxiety immediately. As such, take
small steps towards the larger goal.
Initially, leave your dog alone for short
periods of time and progressively increase
the amount of time you spend away from
your dog.
Perhaps start with 5 minutes and continue
extending the time period left alone.

6. Tip #2
Taking your dog for a walk prior
to you leaving is a good way to
allow your dog to release
energy. Let your pooch rest and
provide food and water before
leaving them alone. You will
notice that your dog is calm and
less stressed as a result of the
exercise.

7. Tip #3
Create a safe haven for your dog within the home. Use a kennel,
small room or allocate a special area just for your dog to ensure that
he feels comfortable and secure. Make this area more attractive by
leaving food and toys for your dog.

8. Tip #4
Do not give in to your dog’s demands for attention before you
leave your home. Attention-seeking behaviour includes things
like: whimpering, dropping items at your feet, nudging or barking.

9. CONCLUSION
Reducing separation anxiety is
essential for a healthy, happy
relationship between you and your
pooch. Professional dog or
puppy training may be beneficial
depending on the extent of your
pooch’s anxiety. Regardless, there
are steps that you can take now to
decrease the distress your dog
experiences when you are away.

10. This presentation was prepared on the
behalf of http://barkbusters.ca/