I’ve had several calls recently from owners wanting to know why their dog is being so naughty and destroying anything and everything they can lay their teeth on when left alone. Contrary to what they believe, their dogs are not being naughty, nor do they want to annoy their beloved owners! Chewing when left alone is one of the symptoms of Separation Anxiety.
So what is Separation Anxiety? Humans often think that their dogs miss them and are bored when they are out, however this is not strictly true. Dogs are pack animals and because of the way we interact with them many think that they are in charge and that we, their owners, are their babies. If you don’t display strong leadership skills in a way your dog understands there is a possibility that every time you walk out of that door and close it behind you, they are wondering where their baby is and worrying about what could be becoming of you!
Anyone who has a child will understand the sheer panic that can consume you when your child goes missing, even if only for a minute! Similarly, imagine how you would feel if your child walked out of the front door and locked it behind them so that you couldn’t get out and make sure they are safe and sound! You would do anything to get out and protect them! This is how a lot of dogs feel when their owners leave the house.
When dogs chew endorphins are released which relieve the stress they are experiencing and helps calm them down – similar to the way football managers are often seen chewing gum when watching their team play. Some dogs even chew the wooden door surround in an attempt to get out to find and protect the missing family members.
To a dog, a separation occurs any time there is a closed door between you and them. As a result some dogs may chew when you are in the house but in another room – for example at night when we go to bed!
People often think that their dogs know that they have been naughty as they look guilty, however the reality is that you return and are annoyed which worries them even more! They must have been right to be worried about you as you have returned to the home in a bad mood!
Chewing is just one of the symptoms of Separation Anxiety. If your dog chews when you are not around or is displaying some other behaviour pattern (for example barking, howling or toileting) when left alone, there is a strong possibility that he is suffering from Separation Anxiety. I can help you overcome this by showing you how to change the way you interact with your dog and help you all have a calmer, more relaxed time when you are out of the house.