It is not uncommon for dog owners to worry about separation anxiety as a dog behavior problem. Known as owner absent misbehavior, it is shown by dogs in many ways, like chewing, excessive barking and destroying property. They whine, bark, cry, howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door when the owner is away. Dog owners go home in the quickest time because they are worried about their lonely dogs and they want to take care of them, when in fact both humans and dogs should cope with not being in each other’s presence in a healthy way.

So what’s the best way to treat this dog behavior problem? There are many ways how.

You must remember that the way you leave your pet behind will have an impact on his separation anxiety. Long farewells make the dog feel more isolated and excited as he awaits for your return. He will lots of energy during this time, which he will waste in a destructive way by, by chewing up on rugs and other things that all amount to mess.

Dog owners assume that separation anxiety and having lots of energy are the same, when they are different. If your pet’s problem is his too much energy, provide chew toys for your dog to keep him busy, and keep him well-exercised. But if the problem is separation anxiety, then solve the underlying root of that anxiety. One of the best things you can try is to keep him happy, safe and secure when you are not around. How? Give him lots of toys to play with while you are gone, to keep him busy. Provide him a companion, like another pet or a cat.

Another one you can do to keep your dog happy is by devoting scheduled playtimes with him. Spend the whole time play with your pet and establishing that bond to be sure he will not feel lonely. Keep him well-exercised. A well-exercised pet will soon be tired enough to get worried too much and so will spend the whole time sleeping while you are away. After playtime and before you leave, Wait for awhile for him to settle down. As mentioned before, he will sleep and not feel worried when you are away.

If your dog is already having separation anxiety and showing unwanted behavior, get him to get used to your departure slowly. Have trips at irregular schedules, several times a day, so that your pet will be used to it and for him to realize that these departures are only temporary. However, pets that have been lost before and pets that lived in shelters and are readopted, often display the worst behavior when it comes to separation anxiety. If you cannot solve this on your own ask a trainer or a specialist to help your dog eliminate this problem.

Separation anxiety is a common dog training problem which involves assuring your pet you will not leave him forever. Hence make him feel happy, offer him distractions and keep him well-exercised so he’d avoid the entire time worrying about you when you are not there.

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