While there are some unknowns to pet separation anxiety, it can be defined as a dog problem behavior that shows itself in negative ways when the owner leaves. Dog owners often unknowingly provoke dog separation anxiety. Owners spend much time with puppies and bring them everywhere, but when it’s time for the dog to be left alone, it has anxiety.

Common symptoms of separation anxiety are as follows: urinating, defecating, barking, chewing and destruction.

When treating a dog suffering from separation anxiety, the goal is to help the dog become more comfortable being alone. Counterconditioning is a common process to treat this anxiety. It involves changing the dog’s fearful or aggressive reaction to a peaceful one instead. The process tries to associate in the dog’s mind being alone with good things, such as food.

Exercise, obedience, leadership, rules and positive rewards are all necessary in a dog’s life. The successful implementation of these can help prevent separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety can be overcome; sometimes it is quick, sometimes it is not. It will take time, patience and consistency, but it will result in better feelings for dogs and dog owners.