Separation anxiety in dogs describes a condition in which a dog exhibits distress and behavior problems when separated from its handler. Separation anxiety typically manifests within minutes of departure of the handler.[1] It is not fully understood why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and others do not.[2] The diagnosis process often leads to a misdiagnosis as it is difficult to differentiate from other medical and behavioral problems. The behavior may be secondary to an underlying medical condition.[3] With chronic stress, impairments to physiological health can manifest. Increased stress in the dog alters hormone levels, thus decreasing natural immunity to various health problems.[4] Separation anxiety can be treated with systematic desensitization and, if necessary, medication.[5][6] Ignoring or punishing the dog, leaving them to "cry it out" does not solve separation anxiety and can damage the mental health of dogs.[7]
- ^ "Guide to Separation Anxiety in Dogs". PawLeaks (2020). 19 June 2019.
- ^ of the US, Humane Society. "Separation Anxiety". Retrieved 9 August 2012.
- ^ MD, Pet. "Separation Anxiety in Dogs". Retrieved 9 August 2012.
- ^ Dreschel, Nancy (2010). "The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs". Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 125 (3): 157–162. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2010.04.003.
- ^ Sargisson, Rebecca (30 October 2014). "Canine separation anxiety: strategies for treatment and management". Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports. 5: 143–151. doi:10.2147/VMRR.S60424. ISSN 2230-2034. PMC 7521022. PMID 33062616.
- ^ "Literature Review: Behavior Modification for Canine Separation Anxiety". International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Retrieved 2024-07-24.
- ^ "Treating Separation Anxiety in Dogs". Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Retrieved 2024-07-24.