SCHNAUZER PUPPY SEPARATION ANXIETY

Schnauzer Puppy Separation Anxiety

Schnauzer puppy separation anxiety is a common disorder that only occurs when dogs are separated from their owner, making them exhibit extreme stress until their owner returns. Research indicates that 20-40 percent of dogs presented to veterinary behavioral specialists suffer from separation anxiety. 

Although dogs should never be left too long on their own, being alone for a long time doesn’t come naturally for them. Dogs with this disorder exhibit a dramatic anxiety response almost immediately their owners leave them. If your dog is anxious or unsettled about being left at home alone, your pet probably suffers from separation anxiety.

Symptoms of separation anxiety

Although it’s hard to know what is in a dog’s mind, experts believe the abnormal behaviors they exhibit shortly after being left alone are equivalent to a panic attack. Here are some of the common signs associated with puppy separation anxiety:

• Digging and scratching at doors 
• Destructive chewing 
• Howling, barking, and whining 
• Urination and defecation 
• Barking for prolonged periods
• Drooling or excessive panting 
• Self-harm 
• Restlessness 
• Reluctance to eat 

Causes of separation anxiety

One of the questions many dog owners often ask is ‘Why do some dogs develop separation anxiety?’ While there is no conclusive evidence showing exactly why dogs develop separation anxiety, experts believe that the disorder can be traced to any of the following different causal situations:

• Being abandoned or surrendered to a shelter 
• Previous change of guardian or family 
• Sudden change in the schedule of their owner
• Change in residence 
• Being left alone for the first time 
• Loss of a family member 

How to ease your puppy’s separation anxiety

If you’re looking to stop or prevent puppy separation anxiety, here are a few things you can do.

1. Crate training

Help your dog become comfortable with being in a crate so they can realize that it’s safe to place for them. Leave the room for short bits of time while they’re inside and gradually build up to longer periods. 

2. Change your ‘Going Away’ signals

If your puppy is familiar with the things you do before you leave home, you might need to change your routine. The goal is to break your dog’s association of these actions with your departure so they don’t get stressed and exhibit signs of separation anxiety. 

3. Downplay goodbyes and hellos

Dogs get agitated when their owners make a big deal about their departure, which could trigger separation anxiety. Don’t get emotional when you’re leaving or overexcited when you return, as it may reinforce the fear of your departure. 

4. Exercise

You have probably heard that a tired dog is a calm dog. Exercising your dog before you leave can help get them relaxed and divert their attention to food and sleep when you leave. 

5. Music

Another great way to deal with puppy separation anxiety is to turn on some music to relieve their stress. Recent studies reveal that playing music reduces stress in dogs at animal shelters, with less barking, lower respiratory rates, and lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Tara’s Schnauzers has a great playlist of music choices for you on their YouTube Channel. Click to see them now.

Conclusion

Puppy separation anxiety might not always be preventable despite your best efforts, but you can ease it by following the tips above, as they have proven to be effective. So go ahead and crate train your dog, engage them in exercises and turn on some great music.