If you have to leave your dog on his own it can bring on separation anxiety, this is usually caused by over-dependence on an owner. It can be the result of being weaned too early, being abandoned, or simply due to the temperament of the dog.

You leave your dog alone for just twenty minutes while you run to do some shopping and when you return he's emptied the rubbish onto the kitchen floor, destroyed a pillow or had a pee in your hallway. If this sort of behaviour happens frequently your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety.

Over-dependence

Separation anxiety is common in dogs and is usually caused by over-dependence on an owner. This dependence can be the result of being weaned too early, being abandoned, or simply due to the temperament of the dog.

It is a difficult but not impossible condition to treat. And, with patience you can overcome the destructive behaviour associated with separation anxiety completely.

What to look out for

The types of behaviour commonly associated with the problem are urinating and/or defecating in inappropriate places, destructive chewing and pawing, excessive barking or whining, a refusal to eat or drink, self-chewing or self-licking.

When you return home there is usually a prolonged, over-enthusiastic greeting too.

Punishment isn't the answer

Punishing your dog is the last thing you should do in this situation. He won't be able to associate the mess he has made while you were out with the punishment he receives a few hours later. Your dog may appear to act guilty but this is simply submissive behaviour - dogs don't feel guilt but they can anticipate a punishment.

Looking down, tucking his tail between his legs, slinking, showing his belly, these are all ways your dog shows submission, not guilt. Basically, he is saying "Hey, I know you're the boss. Don't beat me up." Punishment only treats the symptoms of separation anxiety and not the root cause.