Separation anxiety or something else? Clues in what happens when you leave
A chewed door frame or an accident on the floor does not always mean separation anxiety. The ASPCA lists clues that help tell the difference.
What points to separation anxiety
The ASPCA says signs often include barking or howling that does not seem triggered by anything but being left alone, distress that starts within minutes of you leaving, and agitation as you get ready to go. It says behaviors like chewing, digging, escaping, pacing and house soiling that are caused by separation anxiety usually do not occur when the guardian is present.
What may point elsewhere
The same page says disruptive behavior when alone can also mean a dog needs polite house manners. It also says house soiling can be caused by incontinence, a medical problem, or by medications, and that you should contact your veterinarian about that.
What can trigger it
The ASPCA says there is no conclusive evidence for exactly why dogs develop it, but lists situations linked with it: a change of guardian or family, an abrupt change in schedule, and a move to a new home.
A simple log (our suggestion)
- Time you left, time you returned, and what you saw when you came home.
- A short video of the first 15 minutes alone, if you can set up a phone.
- Anything that changed that week.
Medication
The ASPCA says to always consult your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist before giving a dog any medication for a behavior problem.
