Can Dogs Have Separation Anxiety?
My dog is constantly chewing on himself.
Can it have separation anxiety?
Anxiety Question:
Can a dog have separation anxiety?
My dog has just turned three.
He is constantly chewing on himself. He does not have a flea problem. I have noticed that it increases when I am getting ready to leave the house. It is becoming constant.
Anxiety Answer:
Absolutely; your dog is either having separation anxiety, or OCD symptoms.
You need to do three things:
- Buy a crate, and work on crate training him so that he has a safe, comfy place to retreat to when you are gone. You can put his favorite bed, toy or treat into the crate. This provides a place for him to calm down and alleviates separation anxiety.
- Get him into an obedience class. Basic obedience is a good structure to build from. Then you need to find a dog trainer to help you work with his separation anxiety problems.
- You need to speak with your vet about his behavior, after you have set him up with the crate and training. Allow your vet to make any recommendations about medication for separation anxiety.
Back from Anxiety Answer
to Anxiety Questions