Separation anxiety in our canines describes a condition where the dog exhibits distress and behaviour problems when separated from their owner or left alone. Why some dogs suffer with separation anxiety, whilst others cope well with being left alone, is unknown, but useful, well delivered management techniques can minimise your dog’s stress if they are affected by separation anxiety.
It is important to remember that our dogs are naturally pack animals and this is why it feels unnatural to some of our canines to be left alone. Separation anxiety is diagnosed in around 15% of behavioural cases so if your dog is behaving badly it is vital to consider whether he is suffering from anxiety. Factors at the core of separation include; genetics, lack of socialisation and owner behaviour. Dogs that lack confidence, just like many children are more likely to exhibit behaviour's relating to separation anxiety.
A dog that is suffering separation anxiety may display behaviours such as chewing, barking, salivating, urinating, defecating, vomiting or escape behaviour alongside refusing to eat, panting excessively or showing signs of depression.
Top Tips from Scientific Nutritional Products for Coping with Canine Separation Anxiety 1.) Distractions are extremely useful to keep your dog occupied when you leave the house and whilst you are away. Try preparing a dried bone filled with meat or raw, unsalted peanut butter. Your dog's bone should only be presented to your canine when you leave each day, upon your return home the bone should be put away so the treat remains desirable to your dog.
2.) Remember a dog that is lacking exercise is more likely to have stress and tension. Tiring a dog out with a long walk, run, or with play, goes a long way in reducing stress. In addition certain food can also cause dogs stress and anxiety because of the additives, so feed your dog a good quality food.
3.) When you have to leave your dog alone limit the time spent saying goodbye. A long drawn out goodbye will actually cause your dog to feel more insecure. 4.) Utilising a crate or dog cage in the home can have two positive results. Firstly a dog who is confined crate cannot do damage to your home. Secondly, a crate, when properly introduced, will act as a safe and comfortable "den" where your dog can relax.
5.) Some dogs may also benefit from additional supplements in their diet to achieve ideal health and wellbeing. A healthy dog is a happy dog and Scientific Nutritional Products offer supplements which promote healthy skin and coat in the canine (Canine Super Coat) and also manufacture a very effective glucosamine for dogs (Canine Joint Right) which contains optimum Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid and Omega 3 promoting joint health and improving mobility and comfort.
Scientific Nutritional Products is refreshing company which manufactures high specification equine and canine supplements without compromise, selling directly to customers through their website; www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk making their products exceptional value for money. For more information or to receive one-to-one advice specific to your dog contact our nutritional specialist Peter Fishpool on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774 or Tel: 01377 254900
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