Separation Anxiety and Destructive Behaviours

Managing destructive behaviours

If your dog is being destructive at home whilst you are present, it is likely that they are not getting enough stimulation in their day and are feeling bored.

Make sure that you dedicate time to your dog both in the mornings and evenings, as dogs are often active later in the day, as well as first thing. This could look like splitting a longer walk into two walks or adding a 20-minute training and play session in the evening to their daily routine.

Plan one enrichment activity for your dog daily, especially if they are young and have a lot of energy. This could be a long-lasting natural chew such as a beef skin, hooves, or ears, or a stuffed Kong or Lickimat. There are also free enrichment ideas online, such as feeding your dog’s kibble from a wrapped towel or recycling box, or scatter feeding their dinner in the garden.

Pulling items off counters or shredding your post can be great fun for your dog, so it’s important that they aren’t able to rehearse these behaviours. Crate training or using pens can be a good way to manage your dog and prevent them from engaging in these activities when you can’t keep a close eye on them.

What is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a term that’s often used to cover dogs that are uncomfortable being left alone. This can include dogs who simply find being alone boring, dogs who get frustrated or fed up when you go out without them, and dogs with a genuine fear of being left alone.

It can be hard to tell whether your dog is being destructive whilst you are out because they are bored and frustrated, or whether there is an underlying problem caused by severe stress and anxiety about being left on their own.

True separation anxiety is rare but very distressing for the dog and owner. Symptoms include:

• Whining and pacing as you prepare to leave.
• Dilated pupils, panting, and drooling.
• House soiling.
• Howling and barking once you’ve left.
• Destructive behaviours.

It’s worth noting that for some dogs the behaviours are much less overt.

Severe separation anxiety does not improve on its own, and leaving your dog more often will not help them get used to it. Instead, it reinforces that being left alone is a negative experience. If your dog is exhibiting these signs, it’s essential to contact a qualified trainer.

Health considerations

Some dogs struggle with alone time because of an underlying health issue or because they are taking a medication that may require them to need the toilet more often, such as steroids.

• All dogs should have regular routine health checks, and we suggest speaking to your veterinarian if your dog is becoming distressed during short absences.
• If your dog is suddenly experiencing issues with separation when they were previously fine OR is eliminating in the house when you are not present, it is essential to have them checked over by a vet as soon as possible.
• Ensure your dog is on the best diet possible that is high in protein and low in unnecessary refined carbohydrates, additives, and fillers, all of which can contribute to your dog’s inability to settle.