If your dog tends to chew shoes or bark incessantly when left alone, you may be dealing with separation anxiety. It is more common than you think and, unfortunately, can lead to destructive behaviors, vocalization, and physical symptoms. Unlike other forms of stress, separation anxiety in dogs is directly linked to the owner’s absence and the perception of being “abandoned” or left alone in an environment perceived as unsafe.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, cited on the American Kennel Club (AKC) website, about 14% of dogs experience symptoms of separation anxiety at least once in their lives, with higher incidence in breeds that are more affectionate and family-oriented.
What Are the Possible Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
Separation anxiety is a complex disorder that can be influenced by environmental factors, past experiences, and individual predisposition. Understanding the causes is essential for developing an effective prevention or treatment plan.
Often, anxiety arises following sudden changes in routine or situations that create insecurity. In other cases, it is the result of not being accustomed to solitude from the first months of life.
Here are some examples of situations that can trigger separation anxiety in dogs.
· Returning to work after a period of remote working
During remote work or holidays, the dog becomes used to having the owner always at home. The sudden return to a work routine can create a strong sense of emptiness and insecurity, leading to typical separation anxiety behaviors in adult dogs.
· End of summer or Christmas holidays
Holiday periods are often filled with attention and shared moments. The abrupt interruption of these habits can leave the dog feeling unsettled and increase the risk of post-holiday separation anxiety.
· Moving to a new environment
A new home involves unfamiliar smells, noises, and spaces. The owner’s absence in an environment not yet perceived as “safe” can amplify stress levels and contribute to the onset of anxiety.
· Arrival or departure of a family member
A change in the family structure, such as the birth of a baby or a family member moving out, can deeply affect the dog’s emotional balance. In these cases, separation anxiety may intertwine with feelings of jealousy or loss.
· Lack of socialization as a puppy
Dogs that are not gradually accustomed to short periods of solitude in their early months of life tend to develop very low tolerance to being left alone.
· Genetic predisposition and personality traits
Some breeds, such as Labradors, Border Collies, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and German Shepherds, are especially attached to their families and more prone to suffer from solitude.
Symptoms and Typical Behaviors of Dogs with Separation Anxiety
Recognizing the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs early is essential to intervene promptly and reduce stress and discomfort. The signs can range from mild to severe. Let’s take a look at the main ones.
1. Destructive behaviors
Dogs with separation anxiety often engage in destructive behaviors to try to relieve stress or to “reunite” with their owner. For example, they may chew or scratch furniture, shoes, or doors, or bark or howl incessantly.
2. Physical signs of stress
Beyond obvious behaviors, separation anxiety in dogs can also manifest through physical symptoms, such as excessive drooling with slobbering and constant licking, hyperventilation or heavy breathing, trembling, or muscle twitching.
3. Avoidance behaviors
Some dogs respond to separation anxiety by isolating themselves, hiding, refusing interactions they normally enjoy, or refusing food when left alone.
4. Inappropriate elimination
A common symptom, especially in adult dogs, is urinating or defecating indoors despite being properly house-trained. This behavior is not an “act of disobedience” but a direct expression of anxiety and stress.
Practical Tips for Canine Separation Anxiety
Use a webcam to observe your dog’s behavior during the first few minutes after you leave. Note the frequency and intensity of the symptoms: this information will be valuable for a veterinary behaviorist in assessing the problem and designing a targeted intervention plan.
Avoid physical or verbal punishment, as this increases stress levels and worsens the condition.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs and Natural Remedies to Address It
Addressing separation anxiety in dogs with natural remedies can be effective for both puppies and adult dogs, helping to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. Here are some practical strategies, supported by evidence and veterinary recommendations.
1. Physical Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Physical activity is one of the most effective natural remedies against separation anxiety in dogs, as a tired dog tends to be calmer and less prone to developing problematic behaviors. Longer, stimulating walks lasting at least 30–60 minutes before your absence help burn excess energy and reduce stress. Scent-based games, such as hiding treats or small toys around the house or garden, also encourage focus and engage the dog’s mind.
2. Predictable Routine and Gradual Departures
Dogs respond positively to consistent and predictable routines, which help them feel secure even when the owner is not present. It is advisable to start with gradual departures, beginning with just a few minutes of separation and progressively increasing the duration, so the dog can adjust without experiencing panic. Establishing regular times for meals and walks helps reduce uncertainty, creating a reassuring daily structure that supports the dog’s emotional well-being.
3. Herbal Remedies
Certain natural herbs can help calm anxious dogs without causing significant side effects when used properly. Chamomile, for example, has soothing and relaxing properties and is particularly useful during mild stress. Valerian promotes both mental and muscular relaxation, proving effective in moderate anxiety situations. Bach Flower remedies for canine separation anxiety are also a gentle and safe option, suitable for reducing mild stress and even appropriate for puppies.
Always consult a veterinarian before administering any herbal remedy.
4. CBD as a Natural Remedy for Canine Anxiety
CBD for dogs is emerging as a promising natural solution to manage stress and improve emotional balance, thanks to its ability to reduce cortisol levels and calm anxious behaviors.
CBD as a Natural Remedy for Anxiety in Adult Dogs
CBD (cannabidiol) is emerging as a promising natural remedy for treating separation anxiety in adult dogs.
Several scientific studies have highlighted its benefits in reducing stress and improving animals’ emotional well-being.
· For example, research published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science showed that a single dose of CBD at 4 mg/kg of body weight can significantly reduce anxious behaviors in dogs during separation from their owner, demonstrating a decrease in cortisol levels as well as reduced vocalization and agitation.
· Another study confirmed that daily administration of CBD at 4 mg/kg has positive effects on certain stress indicators in dogs, suggesting potential benefits for managing separation anxiety.
CBD Dosage for Treating Separation Anxiety in Dogs
To properly administer CBD to an adult dog with separation anxiety, it is essential to follow the guidance of an experienced veterinarian. Generally, the recommended dosage for dogs ranges between 0.5 and 2 mg/kg of body weight, given twice daily. It is important to start with a low dose and increase gradually, carefully monitoring the dog’s response.
Administering CBD to Dogs with Separation Anxiety
CBD can be administered in various ways: directly into the dog’s mouth, mixed with food, or using CBD-specific treats. Direct administration may provide faster absorption, while adding it to food can be more practical for some dogs. It is advisable to give CBD about 30–60 minutes before separation to maximize its calming effects during the owner’s absence.
How to Choose the Right CBD Product for Dogs
Choosing the right CBD product for dogs is crucial.
· Opt for full-spectrum CBD oils, preferably derived from organically grown hemp, to ensure greater effectiveness through the synergy of natural compounds.
· Ensure the product is THC-free or contains less than 0.3%, since THC can be toxic for dogs.
· It is also essential to verify that the product has been tested by independent laboratories to guarantee quality and the absence of contaminants.
In conclusion, CBD can be a valuable option for managing separation anxiety in adult dogs, but it is essential to choose a safe, certified product, such as Eu4dog, and use it under the supervision of a trusted veterinarian, following the recommended dosages.
