Separation Issues or Separation Anxiety?

Meet Elmer, my first dog who suffered from bad separation anxiety until I trained him to feel fine alone.

Separation Issues vs. Anxiety: What Is the Difference?

The terms ‘separation issues’ and ‘separation anxiety’ in dogs are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different levels and types of distress that a dog experiences when left alone. Understanding the distinction can help dog owners create more targeted interventions and support for the dog.

Separation Issues

Separation issues is a general term that refers to any behavior problems or signs of distress that a dog may show when separated from their owner or left alone. These behaviors may be mild and typically do not escalate to severe distress. A dog with separation issues might be uncomfortable when alone, but they can usually cope to some degree without experiencing overwhelming anxiety.

Signs of Separation Issues:
– Barking or whining for a short period when the owner leaves but eventually settling down.
– Mild pacing or checking at doors and windows.
– Some destructive behavior, like chewing on shoes or furniture, but generally limited to manageable or low-level destruction.
– They might be more comfortable if given toys or food puzzles to distract them.

Dogs with separation issues often exhibit low-to-moderate signs of discomfort or boredom rather than full-blown panic. These behaviors can usually be managed with small adjustments to routines or by providing enrichment activities. Training alone often helps to resolve or significantly reduce separation issues.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a more severe and specific condition that causes extreme distress in dogs when they are separated from their owner. It is an anxiety disorder that goes beyond normal discomfort and manifests in intense behaviors. Dogs with separation anxiety experience true panic and often exhibit behaviors that indicate a heightened state of distress or even fear. This level of anxiety often disrupts their ability to function normally when left alone.

Signs of Separation Anxiety:
– Intense vocalizations (excessive barking, howling, whining) that may persist the entire time the owner is gone.
– Severe destructive behaviors (e.g., chewing through doors, scratching walls, damaging windows) as an attempt to escape and reunite with the owner.
– Excessive drooling, panting, or pacing that begins shortly after the owner leaves.
– Self-harm behaviors (e.g., biting or scratching themselves in distress).
– Inability to calm down or be distracted by toys or food treats when alone.
– Loss of control over bodily functions, like urinating or defecating indoors, even if they are otherwise house-trained.

Separation anxiety can be intense and is often considered a panic disorder in dogs. It doesn’t simply go away with time, and if left unaddressed, it may worsen over time. Dogs with separation anxiety require more structured and sometimes professional intervention.

What Causes Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety in dogs is relatively common, with estimates suggesting that it affects between 14% and 40% of the canine population. The prevalence can vary widely depending on factors like breed, age, background, and individual temperament, as well as environmental factors.

Dogs adopted from shelters or rescues tend to have a higher rate of separation anxiety. Studies have shown that 20% to 40% of shelter dogs display symptoms, possibly due to previous abandonment, inconsistent homes, or traumatic past experiences. Some dog breeds are more prone to developing separation anxiety, particularly those bred to be companions or highly social.

Puppies and younger dogs are more likely to experience separation issues, but this can often be outgrown with proper training and socialisation. However, senior dogs may also develop separation anxiety due to changes in health, cognitive decline, or increased dependency on their owners.

Dogs with more anxious temperaments or a genetic predisposition to stress may be more likely to develop separation anxiety. And major changes, like moving to a new home, the loss of a family member, or a significant shift in the owner’s routine (such as returning to work after a period of staying home) can trigger separation anxiety. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic saw an increase in cases as people returned to work after extended time at home with their pets.

With increased awareness around animal welfare, more dog owners are recognising signs of separation anxiety and seeking help. Additionally, the growing trend of pet adoption and companionship during the pandemic led to many dogs becoming accustomed to constant human presence. As routines shifted back to pre-pandemic patterns, veterinarians and trainers reported seeing a significant rise in separation anxiety cases.

Because separation anxiety can have a substantial impact on both the dog’s well-being and the owner’s lifestyle, it’s essential to identify and address it early. Working with a professional dog trainer can help prevent the escalation of mild separation issues into full-blown separation anxiety.

Did You Know These Facts?