6 Separation Anxiety Risk Factors

Doreen Potter Author

Is your dog or pup at risk of developing Separation Anxiety?

 How you can help.

Here are some study and research results.

1.Pups bought from pet shops.

Luckily in the UK you will not see pups for sale in pet shops. Although puppy farmed puppies could have the same risk factors as it is believed that the stress these pups are under can affect their emotional state, making them anxious and nervous right from the start. Possibly removed from the mum and siblings too early and living in non nurturing environments.

2. The ”Velcro” puppy.

We all know the one, follows the pet parent (usually just one) everywhere. This is what is known as “Hyper Attachment” Dog's are social creatures and love being with their significant pet parent, but when it becomes that the puppy never rests, always watching for their pet parent to move. This is really not a great place for a puppy to be.

The boat is out on this one………. Could a nervous anxious pup be clingy because of the pup’s emotional state, or does separation anxiety cause the clinginess?

3. Living with just one pet parent.

Studies have shown that this could be a real factor in fact 2.5 more times likely with one pet parent than a multi household.

4. Rescue Dogs.

Rescue dogs can become very attached to their pet parents. This could be due to the fact they have been abandoned and need to learn to feel safe. Overseas rescue can really imprint on one particular person.

They may lack confidence and really need your constant support. Life is scary for these dog's and they need time to adjust and grow in confidence.

5. Recent changes in the home.

Your dog that has always been settled when left, suddenly struggles with being home alone.

This could be down to a house move, a new baby, a change in relationships, someone leaving. Back to work after working from home. Work being done in the home. Something that spooks them. Lots of factors may affect your dog.

6. Cognitive decline.

Old age, loss of hearing, eyesight and pain with old age can affect your aging dog and they can develop Separation anxiety because of this. 

One known factor that doesn’t cause a risk is……..

Having your dog sleeping on your bed or in your room

 DOES NOT CAUSE SEPARATION ANXIETY.

so please if people say “it is because you have spoiled them” research says otherwise.

What can you do to help alleviate or reduce the risk?

1. Pups bought from pet shops,

These puppies need gradual exposure to home alone time. Not every pup may develop SA, but helping them by playing peek a boo, where you pop out of sight and then back in sight can help them understand you do come back. As we don’t know which pup may develop SA, doing this with all new puppies is a done deal.

2. The ”Velcro” puppy.

Sharing the love is what works for these pups/dogs. The significant person needs to take a back seat. Others in the home do all the fun stuff and soon the puppy won't become as anxious when the number one person gets up and moves around. Great for the puppy as they can start to relax, and it may help the pup or dog feel less anxious in other areas.

3. Living with just one pet parent.

This one is tough. Dog walkers, family members or friends can help. Again it is sharing the love. Many people will use doggy day care too. As long as the dog or puppy is happy going there.

4. Rescue Dogs

Give these dog's time to decompress and feel safe before leaving them for any length. Then as above, sharing the love can really help, and a step by step programme if needed.

5. Recent changes in the home.

People sometimes may not realise how change can affect our dogs. We take it for granted that just because we adjust our dogs should too. 

Not all dog's do cope and may need help. Gradual exposure to being home alone might be needed.

The use of a white noise machine or leaving the TV on can help if there is some external noise upsetting your dog. Maybe sleep close to them for a few nights to help reassure them everything is ok.

6. Cognitive decline.

Vet check is the first port of call. Possibly pain check. We have to support our elderly dog's and it can be distressing for them and you to see them so unhappy. It may be as simple as managing the home, new bedding to help sore bones. Pain medication. Keeping them safe.

Just to finish off by saying SEPARATION ANXIETY is not caused by you.

IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT.

If you need help and support why not book a free call with me, and we can have a chat.

Categories: Separation Anxiety