Separation anxiety can manifest in different ways for each dog. There are some breeds that seem to be more prone to it, according to recent studies. Some breeds are more likely to develop stubborn temperaments or ailments like hip dyspepsia. Some breeds seem to be prone to developing worse separation anxiety than others.
These 6 breeds are more prone to separation anxiety, so you need to pay extra attention to accommodate your pooch if he is among them:
- Labradors
- Hungarian Vizsla
- Pitbull Terrier
- German Shepherd
- Bichon Frise
- Border Collie
Read on to find out what to do in case you are facing separation anxiety from your dog.
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What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety in dogs is an extreme version of missing you. It is often accompanied by destructive behaviors like chewing and urinating in the house. Sometimes it can even lead to escape tactics, like trying to break the door down or bolting out the yard through a minuscule hole in the fence. Researchers can’t yet pinpoint the exact cause of separation anxiety. Your dog could be suffering from separation anxiety if he is of a people-oriented breed. Other dogs prone to it are rescue pups who have been through abandonment.
It’s especially important to consider separation anxiety if you are planning to adopt it. Especially if you have a specific, people-oriented breed in mind. There are six breeds that are particularly prone to separation anxiety, fear, and stress. They will need more mental stimulation, to prevent behavioral issues. Make sure that you prepare yourself to deal with separation anxiety before you bring a new pet into the family.
Labradors
Many dog owners all around the world hail Labradors as the best family pet. Their temperaments are usually docile and they are famous for their strong familial bonds, especially with children. Due to the fact that they love nothing more than to be at their human’s side, a Labrador can often be prone to separation anxiety. They often start demonstrating signs of separation anxiety from a young age. Due to their size, as they grow their behavior can become destructive when left alone.
Hungarian Vizsla
This stunning breed of dog was bred for hunting purposes. That’s why they form such a strong bond with their owners. They are permanently glued to your side and are known as “Velcro dogs”. A Vizsla is a high-energy dog, so daily exercise is an absolute must. If not frequently exercised, you risk continuous whining, howling and power chewing, especially if you leave them alone.
Pitbull Terrier
Due to owner exploitation, Pitbull and Staffordshire bull terriers have been given a very unfair reputation as highly aggressive dogs.
However, they are naturally very loving and human orientated. When forced to be apart from their owners, they are prone to severe separation anxiety. It is true that they are powerful dogs, and can be destructive when their separation anxiety causes them to act out. That is why many owners of this breed choose to crate them when they are left alone.
German Shepherd
When you imagine a strong and noble German shepherd, you probably wouldn’t think that they would be prone to anxiety. In fact, they are one of the primary breeds that experiences separation anxiety due to their loyalty and pack mentality. They often see their humans as their pack leader (one of the many reasons they are frequently used as police dogs). When they are left alone, they feel as if their whole world is falling apart.
Bichon Frise
These cute little lap dogs usually have big separation anxiety problems and issues with behavior as a result. The Bichon Frise was bred whose sole purpose is to be a companion to its human counterpart. So, while they are happy being snuggled up on their owner’s laps, panic sets in when they are left alone. Fortunately, apart from destruction, negative behavior associated with separation anxiety needs help. They could cause harm to themselves.
Border Collie
This herding dog breed is one of the most highly regarded working dogs today. They are always up for a challenge, they learn quickly and they never seem to run out of energy. Mental and physical stimulation is important to this specific breed. They can become destructive and prone to separation anxiety when they get bored.
Border Collies see pet owners as their leaders. Many farmers are always seen with their loyal companion at their side. This loyalty can also be their biggest shortcoming as they can’t cope with being left alone for extended periods of time—even short periods at first can prove to be a challenge.
How to Ease the Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Your Dog Breed?
Sometimes, a dog will have a valid reason for extreme bouts of separation anxiety. Either they were abandoned in the past, or they were separated from their mother too young, or they simply just don’t like to be on their own. Sometimes, however, there is no explanation for it. Whatever the cause of your pup’s anxiety, you can take certain steps to minimize their “pain”. This could be decreased by keeping them well socialized, well exercised, and distracted with treats or snacks or toys. Crate training can also be a good option for larger breeds, as can doggy daycare.
If you feel that your dog’s separation anxiety tactics are getting out of hand, then it is time to start exploring your options. Our advice would be to start giving your pup a daily dose of high quality, organic CBD oil to calm them and get them in the right frame of mind for further training that you can undertake to prevent anxiety-related issues.
This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.
