Introduction
Rex is a two-year old Beagle who is usually playful and energetic. But ever since his owner Susan went away on a week-long work trip, Rex has been moping around the house, refusing to eat or go for walks. Susan’s house-sitter reports that Rex just lies on Susan’s bed all day, barely moving except to go outside to relieve himself. When the house-sitter tries to get Rex to play with his favorite toy, Rex just stares at the floor. It’s clear that Rex is depressed without Susan around.
Susan’s experience with Rex illustrates a common phenomenon – dogs who develop symptoms of separation anxiety when their owner is away. In this article, we’ll explore the question: Can dogs get depressed when their owner is away?
Signs of Depression in Dogs
When dogs become depressed due to separation from their owner, they may exhibit several behavioral changes and symptoms. Some of the most common signs of depression in dogs include:
Loss of appetite – Depressed dogs often lose interest in food and treats. They may skip meals entirely or just pick at their food. This loss of appetite is a classic sign of depression in dogs.
Lethargy – Dogs suffering from separation anxiety and depression often become much less active. They may sleep more, move less, and lack interest in playtime or walks. Overall, lethargic and withdrawn behavior is a clear indicator of depression.
Hiding – Dogs may hide under furniture, in closets, or in corners when feeling anxious or depressed about their owner being away. They retreat and want to be left alone.
Destructive behavior – Some depressed dogs cope with separation by chewing, digging, urinating, and engaging in other destructive actions. This is thought to be an attempt to self-soothe anxiety from missing their owner.
Causes of Separation Anxiety
There are several potential causes of separation anxiety in dogs:
Fear of abandonment is a major cause. Dogs are pack animals and naturally want to be with their family members. Being left alone can cause them to feel abandoned, which leads to anxiety (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/separation-anxiety-in-dogs).
Lack of proper socialization as a puppy is another culprit. Puppies that are not adequately exposed to being alone at a young age often develop separation anxiety as adults. They do not learn how to self-soothe and cope with solitude (https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2020-05-15/new-research-identifies-root-causes-separation-anxiety-dogs).
Traumatic experiences like abuse or abandonment can also lead to separation anxiety. Dogs that have been rehomed multiple times or faced neglect often struggle with being alone (https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety).
Preventing Separation Anxiety
One of the most important ways to prevent separation anxiety in dogs is through early obedience training. Puppies should be regularly exposed to short periods alone where they are left with stimulating toys or puzzles. Owners should also avoid emotional hellos and goodbyes.
Obedience training helps dogs learn to follow basic commands. A well-trained dog is more confident when left alone. Owners should start obedience training early and use positive reinforcement. Regular short practice sessions will help puppies associate being alone with rewards.
Owners should also expose puppies to brief absences early on, starting with just a few seconds and slowly increasing time alone while providing praise and treats upon return. Leaving a stimulating toy or puzzle provides mental stimulation. With continued positive exposure to short departures, puppies gain independence and confidence.
A dog that is well-exercised and mentally stimulated is less likely to experience separation anxiety. Owners should provide adequate physical and mental stimulation through walks, play time, puzzles, and interactive toys. A tired, content dog will be less distressed when left alone.
Treating Existing Separation Anxiety
There are several methods for treating separation anxiety in dogs once it has already developed:
Counterconditioning using treats can be an effective approach. This involves giving the dog a highly desirable treat every time the owner leaves the house. Over time, this counterconditions the dog to associate the owner’s departure with something positive rather than negative (RSPCA).
Prescription anti-anxiety medication may be recommended by a veterinarian in more severe cases. Medications like fluoxetine and clomipramine can help reduce overall anxiety and make separation easier for the dog (ASPCA).
Pheromone collars or sprays can provide a sense of comfort and relaxation for dogs with separation anxiety. These synthetic pheromones mimic chemicals released by a mother dog to reassure her puppies. Worn or sprayed during alone time, pheromones may reduce problematic behaviors (WebMD).
Coping Tips for Owners
There are some simple things pet owners can do to help a dog with separation anxiety cope when left home alone:
Stick to a routine: Dogs find comfort in predictability. Establish a routine for when you leave the house and when you return. For example, take your dog for a short walk and give them a treat before leaving. When you get home, keep greetings low-key.
Give your dog a toy with your scent: Leave an item with your scent, like an old shirt, for your dog to cuddle. Your familiar smell can have a calming effect.
Leave the TV or music on: The sound from electronics can help mask outside noises that may stress your dog. Consider leaving the TV on with animal programming or playing calming music.
Try an anxiety wrap: These snug-fitting garments apply gentle, constant pressure that can have a soothing effect for anxious pups.
Consider pheromone plug-ins: Synthetic dog pheromones mimic natural chemicals that provide comfort. Plug-ins release calming pheromones into the air in your home.
Keeping a consistent routine, leaving your scent, and providing distractions like TV can help an anxious dog stay calm when you’re away. But significant separation anxiety may require professional treatment.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe or leads to destructive behaviors, it’s important to seek help from a professional, such as your veterinarian or a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.
Signs that your dog’s separation anxiety has become severe include:
- Excessive barking or howling for long periods (more than 30 minutes)
- Harming themselves (biting, scratching, licking) trying to escape
- Aggressive behavior when you prepare to leave or return
- Urinating or defecating indoors while you’re gone
- Destroying property, doors, floors, furniture
Dogs with severe separation anxiety are at risk of injuring themselves or causing property damage. They also are extremely stressed and unhappy when alone.
A veterinarian can help rule out underlying medical problems and provide treatment options specific for your dog. A dog trainer or behaviorist can assess your dog’s anxiety triggers and work with you on customized training plans to help your dog overcome separation anxiety.
Long-Term Impacts
Separation anxiety can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated. The ongoing stress and anxiety a dog experiences can lead to chronic health issues over time.
Studies show that prolonged and repeated stress responses in animals can negatively impact their cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, and immune systems (Dreschel, 20101). This chronic stress takes a physical toll on the body.
Dogs with separation anxiety may also resort to destructive behaviors or self-harm while alone as a way to cope with their anxiety. They may scratch, chew, or lick themselves excessively. In severe cases, a dog may even mutilate parts of their body. This can lead to skin trauma, infections, and other medical issues.
Without proper treatment, separation anxiety tends to persist and often gets worse over time. Left unaddressed, it can have permanent effects on a dog’s mental and physical well-being.
Providing Proper Care
Providing proper care for your dog can help minimize separation anxiety when you need to be away. Focus on the following areas:
- Lots of exercise and playtime: Dogs need daily exercise and playtime not just for physical health, but also for mental stimulation. Take your dog on long walks, play fetch or tug of war, or engage in other active games. A tired dog is less likely to be anxious.
- Proper nutrition: Make sure your dog is eating a diet rich in nutrients. Consult your veterinarian if you need advice. Proper nutrition will help your dog feel healthy and less prone to stress.
- Affection: Dogs thrive on human interaction and touch. Pet and cuddle your dog daily and give plenty of praise and reassurance. This helps build confidence and security.
Conclusion
In closing, the evidence shows that dogs can indeed get depressed and anxious when their owners are away for extended periods of time. Separation anxiety is a real condition stemming from a dog’s strong bond and attachment to their human family. Signs to look out for include destructive behavior, barking, whining, and loss of appetite when left alone.
Proper conditioning and training from puppyhood is key to preventing separation anxiety. Gradually getting your dog used to being alone, providing interactive toys to keep them busy, and avoiding overly excited greetings and prolonged departures can make a big difference. If your dog already suffers from separation anxiety, consult a vet or trainer for customized treatment options like desensitization training, pheromone diffusers, or anti-anxiety medication in extreme cases.
As pack animals, dogs thrive when their social and mental enrichment needs are met. By providing proper care, training, and maintaining loving bonds, we can ensure our dogs feel safe and comfortable both when we are home, and for brief periods when we need to be away.