Reasons Why Dogs Have Separation Anxiety?

Dogs have made a significant influence on the way people live. One of the reasons why dogs are considered as man’s best friends is the legendary attachment these animals have for humans. The close bond pet owners have with their dogs is one of the joys of keeping these affectionate and loyal animals. Dogs are different from aloof cats as these pets are very dependent on their owners.

Dogs would give loads of affection and joys to the family but a pet dog would not only expect to constantly receive attention but would want to be with the master always. This is probably the reason why dogs are known as Velcro pets. The pet’s strong bond with its owner is not always a good characteristics as it can cause separation anxiety, a condition that can make owners decide to abandon their pets. Because of separation anxiety a dog can develop destructive behaviors.

Barking, chewing, digging, house soiling are normal canine behaviors that a dog owner has to put up with. In dogs with separation anxiety disorder, the normal canine behaviors becomes destructive behaviors. In a dog with separation anxiety disorder, the barking, digging, chewing and other normal canine behaviors becomes excessive every time the dog is separated from the owner. In severe cases, a dog that is having a panic attack for being left by the master can jump through windows or even mutilate its own self.

Why do dogs have separation anxiety? Dogs are social creatures that thrive on the company and attention given by the master. 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. Dogs are pack animals and they can consider the pet owner as the leader of the pack. Dogs that were not properly trained would consider themselves to be the alpha male and the humans as members lower in rank. Dogs that consider themselves as the leader of the pack suffer from separation anxiety when separated from the owner.

Abused dogs, abandoned dogs and dogs that have been transferred from one home to another commonly suffer from separation anxiety. Dogs suffering from this disorder would start to manifest a destructive behavior as soon as the master is seen about to leave the home. At the sight of the master picking the car keys or taking the coat from the rack will trigger a panic attack and make the dog starts its destructive behavior.

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