Separation

The Problem

Being left alone is quite often a problem for many dogs and this can lead to problems for dog owners.

This is because dogs have been used to being part of a group throughout the ages dating back to wolves who always went around in packs, and so any exclusion from this is more than likely to cause problems as the dog will feel uncomfortable.

Typical consequences of leaving dogs on their own are:

• Destructive behaviour
• Loss of house training
• Barking/howling
• Depression
• Self mutiliation

The Solution

However, it is not all doom and gloom because the above problems can be avoided with appropriate training.

• Make separation a common experience
  When your dog is young you can teach them to become accustomed to periods of separation just by leaving them on their own for increasing lengths of time. It's also good to provide them with toys and chews to keep their minds active. Then they won't realise that you are not around.
• Gradually desensitise
  If your dog aleady displays problems associated with separation, you need to gradually desensitise them from the feeling of being left alone.

  This can be done by leaving them in a room by themselves for just a few minutes. Once your dog has become used to this (over time) you can start to graually increase those periods.

• Break the pattern
  Quite often your dog will be used to you leaving at a particular time of day (e.g. when you go to work) so a good way to break that pattern is to leave at different times so that you won't be so predictable. Furthermore, you could go about your routine as if you are about to leave (i.e. put on coat and pick up keys etc), but then not actually leave. This will help to reduce the anxiety present within your dog, and over time, your dog will no longer react to your actions.
• Chewing can help!
  As mentioned previously, having something to chew can be a great way to take your dog's mind off the separation, and it's also a good way to ensure that the right things are chewed as opposed to furniture and your personal belongings!
• Alternative remedies
  In addition, there are a range of homeopathic or herbal remedies which can help reduce the levels of anxiety in your dog when faced with periods of separation. These can be given to your dog before you leave to keep a check on the stress.