How to Address Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Did you know that separation anxiety affects nearly 20-40% of dogs across the United States? This prevalent issue can lead to disruptive or destructive behavior when dogs are left alone. From urinating and defecating to barking, howling, chewing, and even attempting to escape, the symptoms can develop within minutes of the owner’s departure. It’s essential for pet parents to recognize these signs and equip themselves with strategies to help dogs with separation anxiety. By managing dog separation anxiety effectively, you can foster a sense of calm and security in your furry friend, making alone time less stressful for both of you.

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you.

Create the obedient, well-behaved pet of your dreams – Click Here!

Key Takeaways

• Separation anxiety affects 20-40% of dogs, leading to behaviors like urinating and defecating.
• Symptoms often appear within minutes of a guardian’s departure.
• Triggers include changes in schedule, guardianship, residence, and household membership.
• Mild cases may be managed with counterconditioning techniques.
• Severe cases require complex desensitization and behavioral modification strategies.

What is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Separation anxiety in dogs refers to the intense stress and problematic behaviors that occur when a dog is left alone. Understanding dog separation anxiety is crucial as it helps in identifying the specific behaviors and signs that distinguish it from general anxiety or boredom. Elements such as trembling, salivating, digging, scratching, destructive chewing, howling, barking, whining, and inappropriate urination or defecation are common signs of separation anxiety in dogs.

Many dogs with separation anxiety become extremely anxious and exhibit distress behaviors like vocalization, destruction, or house soiling when separated from their owners. It is essential to recognize these behaviors early on. For instance, restless actions such as shaking, salivating, refusing to eat, or becoming withdrawn are indicative of this condition. To address separation anxiety effectively, it’s important for owners to establish a predictable routine and provide environmental enrichment, which both mentally and physically tires the dog through long walks and engaging toys.

Several factors can contribute to the development of separation anxiety in dogs. Situations like moving to a new home, family members returning to work, or going through traumatic events can trigger this condition. On the other hand, some dogs may develop separation anxiety due to prior negative experiences when left alone, such as during storms or fireworks. Although it is tempting to think that adopting another pet may help, it is not considered a silver bullet solution for separation anxiety in dogs.

Positive reinforcement training is highly recommended. Owners should focus on rewarding calm behaviors and employing strategies that help the dog to relax comfortably on cue. Additionally, veterinarians might prescribe anti-anxiety medications to assist dogs suffering from severe cases, in conjunction with other calming techniques such as playing soothing music. However, it’s important to monitor if the background sounds ease the dog’s anxiety or exacerbate it.

The duration of treatment for separation anxiety in dogs can be extensive, sometimes taking several months and possibly resurging during periods of transition. Consistency is key—establishing a relaxed routine can significantly help dogs cope better with separation anxiety. Early socialization and training can potentially prevent this issue, emphasizing the importance of proactive management from the puppy stage.

Common Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

Identifying separation anxiety in dogs is essential for ensuring their overall well-being. Dog separation anxiety symptoms manifest in several ways. Below are the most common symptoms that indicate a dog might be suffering from separation anxiety:

Urinating and Defecating

One of the first dog separation anxiety symptoms pet parents may notice is inappropriate urinating and defecating when left alone. This behavior is not a result of incomplete house training but rather a sign of severe stress.

Barking and Howling

Persistent barking and howling, especially when a dog is alone, are indicative of distress. These vocalizations can last for an extended period and generally cease once the owner returns home.

Chewing, Digging, and Destruction

Destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture, digging into carpets, or tearing down curtains are common signs of separation anxiety. Dogs often resort to these behaviors as a way to cope with their anxiety.

Escaping

Some dogs may attempt to escape from their confinement zones, leading to self-injury or property damage. This behavior is motivated by the dog’s overwhelming urge to reunite with their owner.

Pacing

Pacing is another symptom where dogs walk or trot along specific paths in a fixed pattern. This symptom often accompanies other anxiety behaviors and indicates a high level of stress when the dog is left alone.

Coprophagia

In some severe cases, dogs might engage in coprophagia, which involves consuming their own feces. This distressing behavior is directly linked to their anxiety and is usually absent when the owner is present.

Understanding and identifying separation anxiety in dogs is crucial for implementing effective treatment strategies. These symptoms not only affect the dog’s quality of life but can also lead to decision-making complications for pet owners. According to the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, these behaviors are a primary cause for owners to consider rehoming their pets. Early intervention, behavior modification, and sometimes medication can help manage these symptoms successfully, as noted by McConnell. It’s important to monitor these behaviors and seek professional advice if necessary, helping ease the dog’s anxiety and ensuring a harmonious living environment.

Why Do Some Dogs Develop Separation Anxiety?

The development of separation anxiety in dogs can result from various significant life changes. Understanding the root causes of separation anxiety in dogs is essential for managing and alleviating symptoms effectively. This condition is particularly prevalent in dogs under the age of two to three years and manifests more commonly when they are left home alone.

Change of Guardian or Family

One of the primary causes of separation anxiety in dogs is a change in their guardian or family. Dogs that are rehomed or adopted from shelters may have experienced abandonment or instability, leading to heightened anxiety levels. For instance, a dog who has been rehomed multiple times may struggle to adapt to new environments, leading to increased stress and separation anxiety.

Change in Schedule

Another common trigger for separation anxiety is a change in the household’s daily schedule. Events like returning to work after an extended period, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, can disrupt a dog’s routine, increasing anxiety when left alone. Maintaining a consistent schedule as much as possible can help mitigate these effects.

Change in Residence

Moving to a new home can be a significant source of stress for dogs and is one of the frequent causes of separation anxiety in dogs. The unfamiliar environment can trigger anxiety symptoms as the dog adjusts to new surroundings and scents. Ensuring a smooth transition and providing familiar items can help ease this process.

Change in Household Membership

Changes in household membership, such as the arrival of a new baby, the addition of a new pet, or the loss of a family member, can significantly impact a dog’s emotional stability. Such changes may lead to the development of separation anxiety in puppies and adult dogs alike. Ensuring each pet receives individual attention and care during these transitions can help reduce anxiety.

Recognizing these causes of separation anxiety in dogs and implementing appropriate management strategies such as creating a safe space, maintaining a consistent routine, and seeking professional help when necessary, can significantly improve the well-being of dogs struggling with this condition.

Disruptive Behaviors Associated with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in dogs manifests in various disruptive behaviors that can significantly impact both the pet and the owner. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for managing separation anxiety in dogs effectively. Studies have shown that up to 50-60% of dogs may exhibit symptoms of separation anxiety.

Among the common disruptive behaviors are incessant howling and barking, which not only disturb household peace but can also strain relationships with neighbors. Indoor elimination, such as urinating and defecating in the house, is another prevalent sign, often leading to additional stress for owners. Further, destructive behaviors, including chewing furniture, digging, and attempting to escape, highlight the extent of anxiety these dogs endure.

According to a study on the evaluation of treatments for separation anxiety, there is a documented relationship between canine anxieties, phobias, and separation anxiety. Around 34% of participants in another study reported behavior issues in their pets, indicative that managing separation anxiety in dogs goes beyond initial symptoms.

A comprehensive understanding of these behaviors can benefit from insights provided by detailed video analysis. Such analyses have helped underline critical indicators of anxiety in 27% of dogs showing stress and aging through vocalizations. Furthermore, aggression, often marked by subtle shifts in body posture and vocalization variance, is closely linked with anxiety in dogs that are easily aroused and thus at higher risk of exhibiting aggressive behaviors.

Medical interventions, such as Clomipramine and Fluoxetine chewable tablets combined with behavior management, have shown a 32% reduction in symptoms and have had positive results in clinical trials. Behavior management techniques are essential for mitigating dog anxiety behavior effectively. The impact of functional breed selection is also notable, with 30% of dogs showing separation-related symptoms due to breed-specific tendencies.

Recognizing and addressing these disruptive behaviors through a combination of medical treatments and behavioral strategies play a pivotal role in mitigating dog anxiety behavior, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for both the dog and its owner.

The Impact of Medical Problems on Separation Anxiety

Medical problems can significantly influence *separation anxiety in older dogs*, making it crucial to understand and address underlying health issues. A recent analysis highlighted that pandemic restrictions led to dogs being left alone less often, affecting the prevalence of *separation-related behaviors (SRBs)*. Interestingly, one in ten dogs developed new SRBs by October 2020.

Dogs with existing health issues such as incontinence may exhibit behaviors often confused with separation anxiety. Research has indicated that up to 70 million dogs in the United States and Europe could present with SRBs during their lifetime, emphasizing the importance of differentiating between *health-related dog anxiety* and genuine behavioral issues. For example, incontinence can result from a variety of medical causes, leading to house-soiling incidents that owners may misinterpret.

Incontinence Caused by Medical Problems

Incontinence is a significant contributor to anxiety behaviors in dogs, often mistaken for separation anxiety in older dogs. According to an Australian behavior clinic’s epidemiological analysis, separating medical causes like urinary tract infections or diabetes from actual anxiety is critical. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for diagnosing and treating these underlying conditions.

Medications

Certain medications can inadvertently exacerbate *separation anxiety in older dogs*. For instance, treatments for other health issues may increase urination, complicating the identification of anxiety symptoms. Owners should consult with their veterinarians to understand the implications of prescribed medications fully. Professional guidance can help manage these side effects, ensuring a focused approach to alleviate separation anxiety.

Building a comprehensive strategy to treat *health-related dog anxiety* includes ruling out medical issues first. For further guidance on this intricate subject, consider exploring reliable resources such as training dogs with separation anxiety. Ensuring a healthy, well-monitored environment for your canine companion is essential to their overall well-being.

Create the obedient, well-behaved pet of your dreams – Click Here!

Summary of Key Statistics:

Behavior Problems to Rule Out Before Diagnosing Separation Anxiety

Before attributing disruptive behaviors in dogs to separation anxiety, it is essential to conduct a thorough dog behavior assessment. Several other behavior problems might mimic or overlap with separation anxiety, making differential diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.

Submissive or Excitement Urination

Dogs may urinate due to excitement or to demonstrate submissiveness. Identifying these behaviors involves observing the context in which urination occurs, such as when greeting people or during play.

Incomplete House Training

Not all house soiling is due to separation anxiety. Incomplete house training can result in indoor elimination. A dog behavior assessment can help determine if the dog simply needs more consistent and structured training.

Urine Marking

Dogs use urine marking as a way to communicate with other dogs. This behavior often manifests in specific areas or on vertical surfaces and needs to be ruled out using a differential diagnosis for separation anxiety.

Juvenile Destruction

Young dogs, in particular, might engage in destructive behaviors due to teething or boredom. Understanding the context and triggers for these actions is a critical part of the dog behavior assessment.

Boredom

Boredom can lead to excessive barking, chewing, or other destructive behaviors. Ensuring that a dog’s environment is adequately stimulating can help differentiate boredom from separation anxiety.

Excessive Barking or Howling

Excessive vocalization may arise from various factors, including environmental stimuli or frustration. It’s important to document the circumstances under which this behavior occurs.

By ruling out these behavior problems, a differential diagnosis for separation anxiety can be accurately established, ensuring the correct treatment approach is taken to address your dog’s needs effectively.

How to Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety: Initial Steps

Addressing dog separation anxiety training requires a well-thought-out approach that caters to the dog’s emotional needs. Creating a calm and structured environment is crucial. This begins with minimizing excitement during leavings and greetings. By maintaining a neutral demeanor, it helps signal to the dog that comings and goings are a normal part of life.

Incorporating rewarding activities like giving special treats or toys can create positive associations with being alone. Such strategies are effective initial steps to treat dog anxiety. Incremental training methods involving short, frequent departures are beneficial. This gradual exposure helps lessen the dog’s stress response over time.

Ensuring the dog is comfortable with their designated safe space is another fundamental aspect. A cozy area where the dog feels secure can prevent potential triggers from causing distress. Additionally, exercise and mental stimulation play pivotal roles. Regular physical activity and engaging toys can inch towards reducing anxiety levels.

Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit behaviors such as pacing, vocalization, and escape attempts. Therefore, it is recommended to gradually build the dog’s tolerance to being alone. Engaging interactive toys can also aid in distracting and entertaining the dog during your absence. However, they should be used cautiously for dogs suffering from more severe anxiety.

Leave the dog for only short intervals initially, gradually increasing the duration as the dog becomes more comfortable. It is crucial to avoid long separations, especially during the early stages of the training process. Consistent training and patience are vital in fostering a positive outcome.

By following these initial steps to treat dog anxiety, you can lay a solid foundation for more advanced behavior modification strategies. This includes counterconditioning and desensitization techniques, which will be addressed in later sections of this comprehensive guide.

Counterconditioning for Mild Separation Anxiety

Counterconditioning is a common and effective mild separation anxiety treatment for dogs. This method involves associating the dog’s alone time with enjoyable activities, helping to alleviate their anxiety. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by using interactive toys for dogs that keep them mentally engaged.

Using Puzzle Toys

For many dogs, puzzle toys can significantly improve their alone time experience. These toys often come stuffed with dog treats, making them both challenging and rewarding. By focusing on obtaining the treats, dogs can develop a positive association with being alone, reducing their anxiety symptoms. These toys offer a simple yet effective strategy, and studies have shown that around 55-60% of dogs with mild symptoms respond well to such counterconditioning techniques.

Feeding Through Interactive Toys

Another excellent method for treating mild separation anxiety is feeding dogs through interactive toys. Toys like KONGs, which can be filled with food, are particularly beneficial. These toys not only occupy the dog’s time but also create a positive experience connected to being alone. Interactive feeding toys have been found to be successful in about 40-45% of cases, providing mental stimulation and distraction that can help reduce the symptoms of separation anxiety.

For more information on how to tackle your dog’s separation anxiety, visit the Humane Society of Huron Valley.

Advanced Techniques for Moderate to Severe Separation Anxiety

When dealing with moderate to severe separation anxiety in dogs, advanced methods are often necessary. These approaches involve precise tactics that aim to reduce the anxiety by focusing on very gradual exposure to the situation that triggers the distress.

Desensitization Strategies

One highly effective method is desensitization. This involves gradually getting the dog accustomed to being left alone in very small, manageable steps. Start by leaving the room for just a few seconds, then incrementally increase this duration as your dog shows comfort with the absence.

Gradual Absence Training

Another essential technique is gradual absence training, which builds up the time a dog is left alone very slowly. Begin with leaving your dog for a brief period, such as five minutes, ensuring that each session ends without any signs of anxiety. Over time, increase these durations, but be cautious to observe any potential stress indicators and dial back if necessary.

When implementing these severe dog anxiety solutions, it’s vital to ensure each step is small enough to prevent the dog from experiencing any distress. Consistent and patient application of separation anxiety training for dogs can yield significant improvements, fostering a more relaxed and confident pet.

Tips for Leaving Your Dog Alone Without Anxiety

Creating a calm environment for leaving anxious dogs alone can significantly alleviate their stress. Consistent routines and low-key departures and arrivals help make these transitions smoother. Dogs thrive on predictability, so establish set times for walks, meals, and bathroom breaks to minimize anxiety.

Exercising your dog before leaving home can drain excess energy and promote relaxation. Activities like fetch or a long walk can be effective. Additionally, investing in mentally stimulating toys—such as puzzle feeders—keeps their minds occupied.

Create the obedient, well-behaved pet of your dreams – Click Here!

Another useful approach is to gradually increase the time your dog spends alone. Begin with short intervals, then slowly extend the duration as they get more comfortable. It’s also essential to provide distractions. Items like chew toys and blankets that carry the owner’s scent can offer a sense of security.

Here are some practical dog anxiety tips:

• Hire a professional dog walker for mid-day breaks.
• Utilize doggy day care services.
• Leave a TV or radio on for background noise.
• Use interactive and chewable toys.

Additionally, some dogs benefit from calming supplements or plug-in diffusers designed to reduce anxiety. Ensuring a cozy, secure bed space can also make them feel more at ease. Last but not least, make sure to keep leaving and returning as uneventful as possible.

Comparison of Methods to Ease Separation Anxiety:

Implementing these dog anxiety tips can create a more serene environment. Ultimately, leaving anxious dogs alone with these strategies can significantly reduce their stress and improve their overall well-being.

Creating a Safe and Enriched Environment

Ensuring your dog has access to an enriched environment and safe spaces is paramount in reducing anxiety. Constructing these areas involves both physical and mental stimulation to make your pet feel secure and content in your absence.

Safe Spaces and Toy Options

Creating dog safe spaces within your home allows your pet to retreat to a comforting environment. These spaces can include crates, designated rooms, or cozy corners filled with familiar objects like blankets or clothing that carry your scent. Implementing an enriched environment for dogs can also involve providing enrichment toys that promote problem-solving and engagement. Toys like puzzle feeders and chew toys can keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated, reducing the chances of destructive behavior.

Music and White Noise

Incorporating music and white noise can further contribute to creating dog safe spaces. Soft music or ambient sounds can soothe your dog and mask any external noises that may trigger anxiety. Studies have shown that certain types of music, particularly classical tunes, can have calming effects on dogs. White noise machines or even a simple fan can help create a tranquil environment, minimizing stress and preventing anxiety-induced behaviors.

Importance of Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Regular exercise and mental stimulation for dogs play a pivotal role in managing separation anxiety. Ensuring your canine companion stays both physically and mentally engaged can alleviate stress and prevent destructive behaviors like excessive barking and chewing.

Physical Activities

Tailoring play sessions and walks to your dog’s unique needs is crucial, as their preferences and energy levels can vary widely. Activities such as fetch, tug-of-war, or agility training not only provide essential physical exercise but also serve as excellent avenues for exercising anxious dogs. Regular walks, especially those with varying routes, keep dogs mentally stimulated and engaged.

Mental Challenges and Enrichment

Incorporating mental challenges into your dog’s daily routine is equally important. Engaging them with puzzle toys, interactive toys, or training exercises can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Mental stimulation for dogs triggers the release of neurotransmitters that enhance their happiness and reduce stress. Ensuring that your dog has tasks or “jobs” to complete can help alleviate separation anxiety, making them feel more accomplished and less irritable.

• Switching up toys to keep things fresh
• Incorporating games like hide-and-seek
• Engaging in short but impactful training sessions
• Providing sensory activities like scent walks

These techniques can transform an anxious dog into a well-adjusted and happy pet.

Utilizing Professional Help

When dealing with persistent or severe separation anxiety in dogs, seeking professional assistance is often essential. A specialized dog behavior specialist or a certified dog trainer for anxiety can provide the expertise needed to address this complex issue effectively. These professionals not only understand the underlying causes of separation anxiety but also offer tailored training programs and behavior modification strategies.

Certified Dog Trainers

A certified dog trainer for anxiety can be incredibly beneficial for dogs exhibiting mild to severe symptoms of separation anxiety. These trainers use a range of techniques, including counterconditioning and desensitization, to help dogs develop positive associations with being alone. Through structured training sessions, certified trainers guide both pets and owners in managing and reducing anxiety-related behaviors.

Veterinary Behaviorists

For cases requiring a more in-depth approach, veterinary behaviorists are invaluable. These specialists have advanced training in animal behavior and can diagnose and treat complex behavior problems. They often work alongside a dog behavior specialist to create a holistic treatment plan that may include both behavior modification and medication. Veterinary behaviorists can also address any underlying medical issues that may be contributing to the dog’s anxiety.

In conclusion, professional help plays a crucial role in managing severe separation anxiety in dogs. Engaging with a certified dog trainer for anxiety or a veterinary behaviorist can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being, fostering a gradual but effective path to improvement.

Separation Anxiety Medication for Dogs: When to Consider

In certain severe instances of separation anxiety, medication may be recommended by a veterinarian. The goal of using separation anxiety medication for dogs is to lower their anxiety baseline, making behavior modification efforts more successful. Medication should always be considered as part of a broader, multifaceted treatment plan to ensure the well-being of your furry friend.

Types of Medications

There are two FDA-approved medications for treating canine separation anxiety: fluoxetine (Reconcile, PRN Pharmacal) and clomipramine (Clomicalm, Novartis). Maintenance medications for anxiety include clomipramine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline. These medications help reduce anxiety levels over time and are taken daily.

Situational medications, such as benzodiazepines, clonidine, and trazodone, can be used for event-based treatment. These should be administered at least 15 minutes before the anticipated stressful event and are best suited for infrequent use. Clonazepam and trazodone are also utilized to manage immediate symptoms but require careful titration to avoid potential side effects, such as paradoxical excitation. Additionally, nutraceuticals, supplements, and pheromone-based options provide alternative solutions for managing canine anxiety.

Consulting Your Veterinarian

Consulting veterinarians for dog anxiety is crucial before administering any medication. A veterinarian can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include identifying comorbid diagnoses like noise phobia, confinement intolerance, and territorial behavior. This thorough evaluation ensures that the prescribed treatments align well with your dog’s specific needs.

A behavioral treatment plan developed with the help of a veterinarian can enhance the effectiveness of medications. When properly combined, these strategies can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and alleviate the strain on pet owners, leading to a happier and healthier home environment.

Create the obedient, well-behaved pet of your dreams – Click Here!

Source Links

• https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety
• https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs-separation-anxiety
• https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/separation-anxiety-dogs
• https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/separation-anxiety-in-dogs
• https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/dog-separation-anxiety/
• https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/behavioral/separation-anxiety-dogs
• https://bondvet.com/b/how-to-prevent-separation-anxiety-in-dogs
• https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-behavior/common-dog-behaviors/separation-anxiety-in-dogs
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8479053/
• https://www.merckvetmanual.com/behavior/normal-social-behavior-and-behavioral-problems-of-domestic-animals/behavioral-problems-of-dogs
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8868415/
• https://www.dovepress.com/canine-separation-anxiety-strategies-for-treatment-and-management-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-VMRR
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10827376/
• https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/behavior/separation-anxiety-in-dogs
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7521022/
• https://www.petmd.com/dog/training/how-help-dog-separation-anxiety
• https://www.24petwatch.com/blog/8-ways-to-help-with-dog-separation-anxiety
• https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/separationrelatedbehaviour/treatment
• https://www.caninejournal.com/separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
• https://www.kongcompany.com/how-to-manage-separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
• https://www.mspca.org/pet_resources/separation-anxiety-and-your-dog/
• https://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyvetted/2013/sept/six-solutions-for-dog-separation-anxiety-30876
• https://snoutsnstouts.com/dog-behavior/curing-dog-separation-anxiety/
• https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/leaving-your-dog-home-alone-guilt-free-guide
• https://themarling.com/5-ways-to-decrease-your-dogs-separation-anxiety/
• https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/home-alone-preventing-separation-anxiety
• https://www.petpalaceresort.com/separation-anxiety-in-dogs-signs-causes-and-strategies-for-preventing-it/
• https://www.provendogtraining.com/separation-anxiety-and-destructive-behavior/
• https://inquisitivecanine.com/2022/09/11/enrichment-for-dogs-part-one-helping-canines-live-in-our-human-world/
• https://thegrandpaw.com/the-importance-of-mental-stimulation-how-play-sessions-benefit-your-pets-brain/
• https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/ways-to-keep-dog-mentally-stimulated
• https://www.dogtrainermanhattan.com/helping-dogs-overcome-separation-anxiety-professional-solutions-and-at-home-strategies/
• https://happydogtraining.info/behavior/separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
• https://petharmonytraining.com/enrichment-activities-for-dogs-with-separation-anxiety/
• https://www.dvm360.com/view/when-and-how-to-prescribe-for-separation-anxiety-in-dogs
• https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/behavior/on-your-best-behavior-canine-separation-anxiety/