One of the challenging things about a relationship with dogs is that they can’t communicate easily when something is up. That’s why owners must be aware of the signs of anxiety in puppies, thus they can aid their mates in coping. If you believe your dog is anxious, there are treatments and recognizable symptoms available to ease your worry. Dogs are known as social animals, which is one of the best reasons why they’re compatible with humans. They’re not comfortable being alone as a result. Some of the symptoms of separation anxiety are excessive barking, accidents in the house, loud crying, and other undesirable behaviors. Luckily, with some dog separation anxiety training, dogs can now learn to be comfortable when they’re alone. Also, it needs extra patience and encouragement from their human companions.

Why do puppies have separation anxiety?

It’s usual to misinterpret separation anxiety behaviors for your dog being agitated with you for leaving them, yet this is not the case. When puppies didn’t learn the appropriate coping techniques to deal with their alone time, puppy separation anxiety happens. It’s like your puppy is having a human panic attack. One of the most challenging behavioral problems to deal with is dog separation anxiety. Taking preemptive measures and being proactive can go a long way in reducing anxious behaviors.

Check these separation anxiety symptoms of puppies

• Unreasonable salivation or panting
• Self-harming behavior
• Excessive howling or barking when alone
• Chewing and other unwanted behaviors
• Digging or scratching at windows or doors
• Accidents in the house
• Attempts of escaping
• Pacing
• Repetitive or obsessive behavior

Understand these tips to aid prevent separation anxiety in your puppies

• Let your dogs know they can trust you
• From the moment you let your puppy home, they must learn that they can trust you to be there. Yet, there are some times when you can’t be with them always, and that’s completely okay. You need to construct baby gates and practice going off the other room and leave them on their own for a few minutes with something that they will enjoy playing with or a treat.

• Cautiously increase their alone time
• Begin with 5 minutes apart, then try 15 and 30 minutes until they’re used to staying on their own for an hour. You need to take note to take it slowly and leave them in a secured area where they feel comfortable with something that will occupy their attention while you’re away. Teaching your dogs that it is also safe to be on their own and it will pay off in the long run, yet also remember that dogs need social interaction and company.

• Don’t make walking away a big deal
• When it’s for you to walk away, leave, and return without any fuss. Make going and coming a part of everyday life from the beginning to let your puppy get used to it. Do small and short tasks along, like showering, putting clothes in the wash, or using the restroom, to aid them to know it’s okay to be alone and that you’re coming back.