10 Solutions For Cocker Spaniel Separation Anxiety
Cocker Spaniels are affectionate and sociable. They are energetic and generally happy animals. However, this happiness depends to a large extent on human company. Cocker Spaniels are not likely to remain happy if they are allowed to spend a lot of time alone.
Some Cockers can appear a bit “down”, if left alone regularly or for an unusually long period of time; others, may exhibit full-blown Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety symptoms.
Before describing these symptoms, it’s important to note that when a cocker spaniel, or any dog, experiences separation anxiety, they don’t intentionally “get back at you” for leaving them. They are basically in a state of fear or panic. They are not considering, they are not even aware of the “goodness” or “badness” of their behavior. They are just reacting. Punishing or scolding your Cocker Spaniel will only make things more difficult for both of you.
There are several behaviors that may indicate that your cocker spaniel is experiencing separation anxiety. It can seem endearing, and actually flattering, when your pup follows you from room to room. Maybe he or she just loves you very much, and I’m sure the puppy does, but it could also be a sign that your Cocker is afraid you’re leaving and doesn’t want to let you out of his sight.
It is also adorable and flattering when pets greet us with great enthusiasm when we return after several hours of absence. Some days it can be nice to know that someone is happy to see us! However, if your Cocker Spaniel freaks out when you return from a quick trip to the mailbox, there could be a problem.
If your cocker spaniel is normally housebroken but urinates regularly or does other things indoors when left alone, it could be a reaction to separation, as long as it’s for a reasonable amount of time and your pet was released prior to your departure. Again, this is not how your pet punishes you. It is a reaction to stress.
Dogs, including Cocker Spaniels, suffering from separation anxiety can sometimes cause minor to significant property damage through destructive actions such as chewing (nervously) and/or scratching at doors and windows in an attempt to break free and track you down. like a fluffy dog. little stalker.
They often vocalize their distress by barking, whining, and even howling while you’re gone. If there is enough distance between you and your neighbors, this is not a big problem for your neighbors; but if you live in a duplex or apartment, it’s not so good!
What can you do with cocker spaniel separation anxiety? You love your Cocker Spaniel but you feel frustrated and stress is getting to you. Don’t give up, help is on the way.
The following are suggestions that will help you with Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety. There are many more suggestions that trainers can provide, but for now this would be a good start. The important thing to understand and remember is that separation anxiety is correctable. A key point is to make sure that your Cocker Spaniel gets plenty of exercise and is persistent in retraining it for normal behavior.
1) The first thing to do is consult with your vet. They can perform some test and eliminate any underlying disorders or medical problems. Dogs, just like people, can often be treated with the same antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications that some humans use for anxiety disorders. Before medicating your dog, it would be good advice to consult with a trainer about your Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety problem as well.
2) Gently reassure your Cocker Spaniel before you leave and use the same words each time so that your dog eventually becomes familiar with the phrase and what it means.
3) Leave your scented clothing or bedding in a pile on the floor for your cocker spaniel to sleep on and/or curl up on. An old blanket works well.
4) Do not try to excite your dog when you return from being outside. Wait a couple of minutes after you return to give your dog your attention.
5) Consider crate training. However, be sure to properly train the pup before attempting to confine your pet for extended hours. Crate training has many benefits, but keeping your pup crated all day is not one of them.
6) Leave a radio (talk station) or television on. Listening to human voices can calm your dog by allowing him to believe that people are nearby.
7) Desensitize your cocker spaniel to your absence by gradually and incrementally increasing his time away (within reason).
8) Dog sitting is a very viable and affordable alternative. A dog sitter will visit her pup at a set time during the day to provide playtime and relief. If you are going on vacation or a business trip, sign up with a Cocker Spaniel rescue group. Members often provide dog sitting services in their own homes at very reasonable prices.
9) Don’t punish your dog, it will only add to the problem and cause confusion with the pup.
10) Be patient and continue to take corrective measures. Many dogs improve dramatically in a reasonable amount of time.
A simple solution that works for many people is to crate the puppy for no more than four hours. Before you create, take your pup outside so he can revive and get some exercise. Make sure the cage has soft bedding, water available, and some attractive toys. Leave a radio on. Lure the pup into the crate with a treat. In fact, I have had dogs that would go into the crate by themselves if they thought I was leaving the house. Dig out slowly and you’ll be on your way to resolving Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety.
If none of these suggestions help with your Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety problem, it’s time to revisit your vet. Anxiety medications can help with retraining.
Good luck in your training.
Charlie Draper, editor