What are separation-related behaviours?
More commonly known as separation anxiety, separation-related behaviour (SRB) occurs when a dog is left alone and becomes distressed. The most obvious signs of SRB include destructive behaviour, like chewing or destroying furniture, and unwanted toileting. However, there are other less common, and therefore easy to miss signs, such as excessive salivation or paw licking. It is therefore important to understand how to recognise SRB and take steps towards supporting your dog’s separation anxiety.
If your newly adopted friend is showing signs of separation-related behaviours, please do not worry – you are not alone! Research has shown that eight out of 10 dogs find it hard to cope when separated from their owner. The good news is that separation anxiety (or SRB) is preventable and treatable.
How to identify separation anxiety
It may be obvious that your dog is suffering from separation anxiety if you return home to reports of excessive barking or destroyed furniture, but more than half of dogs who suffer with SRB do not show obvious signs of distress.
The most common signs of separation-related behaviours in dogs include:
- Destructive behaviour, including chewing and destroying furniture
- Howling, barking or whining
- Toileting (weeing or pooing)
- Excessive excitement upon your return
- Signs of anxiety before you leave
Other less common, and therefore easy to miss, signs can include:
- Trembling, panting or pacing
- Excessive salivation
- Self-injury (e.g. signs of excessive paw licking or tail biting)
- Vomiting
- Not eating (meals, treats or engaging with food toys) when you’re out
Recognising when separation anxiety might be another health issue
One of the main differences between separation-related behaviours and other disorders is that it is caused by the owner leaving and the dog being left alone. Separation-related behaviours typically show soon before or after the owner leaves, and can start anywhere from within a few minutes to half an hour.
Even if you think your dog is happy, it is worth checking for ‘hidden’ signs of distress while you are out by installing a camera to check on their wellbeing.
It is important to note that often underlying health issues can cause or contribute to the development or worsening of separation anxiety. If you are concerned about changes in behaviour it is always a good idea to visit your vet for advice.
Take at look at the National RSPCA advice page for further information.
