Your Fall Schedule and Your Dog's Separation Anxiety

Summer is ending, and things are probably changing in your household’s routine. Your dogs may be watching things shift in your schedule and have difficulty adjusting to the difference, especially if you and your family are home a little less. Even your kid(s) returning to school could cause your dog to develop separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is when your dog is in a state of distress when not around its owner or is left alone. It is common in dogs – up to 18% of dogs show signs at some point of this condition.

Canine separation anxiety is a stress response rooted in a dog or puppy’s instincts to “stay with the pack,” notes Alexandra Bassett, lead trainer and behavior specialist at Dog Savvy Los Angeles. 

Destructive behavior is one of the most common signs that your dog may be dealing with some anxiety over you being gone. Ever home to one of your favorite shoes being so chewed up that it’s unrecognizable or your couch cushions torn to shreds? It may be safe to say your pup isn’t’ too happy about being home alone. Here are a few other symptoms of separation anxiety.

1.     Constant barking

2.     Restlessness

3.     Agitation or constant pacing

4.     Using the bathroom more often in forbidden places

If you have some changes in your schedule and think your dog may start struggling or is already starting to have issues, here are some ways to help manage the symptoms.

1.     Try to ease them into the change. – Start with small amounts of separation. Go through one of the motions that indicate you’re getting ready to leave, like putting on your shoes or grabbing your keys off the hanger. Do this repeatedly for a few weeks. This act will help settle them and remove the negative association with leaving.

2.     Make the leaving process as lowkey as possible. – Try not to make an ordeal out of leaving. Do the same when arriving home. Wait until your dog has had a moment to adjust before showing affection.

3.     Set aside time for exercise as much as possible. – As with humans, exercise produces serotonin, a mood stabilizer.

4.     Hire a dog walker or pet sitter to check in on them during the day. Sometimes all it takes is just a few minutes of interaction to help ease the stress.

Separation anxiety can be a challenge for both you and your pet. There isn’t always an easy fit, and sometimes you have to try different methods until you find one that meets your needs. If the problem persists, it is always a good idea to consult your vet. This Lil Dog of Mine also offers a walking service. We’d be happy to check in on your pup and hang out with them for a while until they can get used to being without you during the day.