Dog Separation Anxiety

Dogs are social animals. They need companionship. In the wild a dog will live in dog
packs. A dog pack provides a dog with its needs both physically and socially. After fulfilling the need for shelter
and food the dog pack provides companionship and social interaction. The need for companionship and social
interaction is as important as food, water and shelter. Some dog breeds are predisposed to separation
anxiety. Dog separation anxiety is basically the fear or dread of being left alone.
As mentioned, certain dog breeds show a greater propensity to suffer from separation
anxiety. These breeds include Airedales, German Shepherds, Springer Spaniels and Weinaraners. However, it is
not limited to a specific breed, all dogs can be overcome by this fear. Puppies that have been taken from
their mothers too early in their development often develop this fear. Older dogs that have grown an attachment
to a family and found themselves in a "dog shelter" often develop this fear. An apartment or house dog is
especially prone to being left alone. As a rule, they are confined to a small area without any exercise and
social interaction with others.
Symptoms of Dog Separation Anxiety
Neglect of any form can be the cause of a dogs separation anxiety. The symptoms of
dog separation anxiety are fairly distinct. A dog may follow his owner closely around the house becoming
anxious when the owner puts on outdoor clothing, or hears the jingling of keys. Often the dog will whine
tremble or cry. Some dogs become aggressive hoping to keep their master home. After the owner has
left they may tear up the house by chewing furniture or urinating, anything to alleviate the fear and
panic felt. Another dog separation anxiety symptom is a dog's self mutilation. A dog may
lick one spot over and over again until it is sore and bleeding.
Family Needs / Dogs Social Needs
A major consideration, when deciding on whether your family should have a
dog, is the family's life style. Are you away from your home for long periods of time? Do you
have the time and or inclination to give a dog all the attention it truly needs? A dog needs more than
shelter, food, and water. A dog has a right to have his needs met. It has the right to healthy,
happy social activity. Not all families are able to provide for the needs of a dog.
Solutions to a Dogs Separation Anxiety
Your dogs social needs are important. Meeting your dogs needs will
minimize the feelings of loneliness and despair which cause dog separation anxiety. To learn how to help your
dog, if he is suffering from dog separation anxiety, go to dog separation anxiety
cures.
Click Here! Dog Separation Anxiety
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