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Many owners find that with dogs that do battle being alone, that bringing in high value chew toys, and toys to interact with can make a huge difference. The chewing helps to reduce the stress and both the chewing and interactive toys, give the dog something else to think about. Do have a look at our website for some of the chew toys and interactive toys we have available. These can be purchased on-line and delivered to your home, or bought from one of our suppliers. www.mcmac.co.za
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Breeds that tend to be prone to separation anxiety
by Scotty Valadao - Friends of the Dog
by Scotty Valadao - Friends of the Dog
Although some breeds do seem more prone to separation anxiety, any breed, or cross-breed can suffer from this terrible condition. especially the miniature and toy breeds. As behaviourists, this is one of the behaviour problems that we dislike the most - why? There is a huge amount of work involved for the owner to do, consistency is crucial, and the most important aspect, is that the dog should never be left alone longer than it can cope with - not always easy, especially if you work!
At our Puppy School one of the most important things we stress, is for all pups/dogs to be taught not only that time alone is normal, but that it can be rewarding as well, in that the dogs only gets special toys when it is left alone. Another vital aspect is to ensure that the dog is getting sufficient mental, physical and social stimulation, and walks at least 3 times a week are supplied. The more a dog has to keep it mentally and physically balanced, the less likely over dependence on the owner will occur.
All owners should be aware of the signs that signal that separation anxiety is developing and start to take the steps to overcome the behaviour. Alternatively, get in the services of an accredited canine behaviour consultant.
Based on the breeds that we ourselves have worked with over the years, and also what research by others has established, here are the 5 breeds we find are more prone to separation anxiety - just listed, not necessarily the worst breed being shown first!
At our Puppy School one of the most important things we stress, is for all pups/dogs to be taught not only that time alone is normal, but that it can be rewarding as well, in that the dogs only gets special toys when it is left alone. Another vital aspect is to ensure that the dog is getting sufficient mental, physical and social stimulation, and walks at least 3 times a week are supplied. The more a dog has to keep it mentally and physically balanced, the less likely over dependence on the owner will occur.
All owners should be aware of the signs that signal that separation anxiety is developing and start to take the steps to overcome the behaviour. Alternatively, get in the services of an accredited canine behaviour consultant.
Based on the breeds that we ourselves have worked with over the years, and also what research by others has established, here are the 5 breeds we find are more prone to separation anxiety - just listed, not necessarily the worst breed being shown first!
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Labrador Retriever
When I first started in this industry at the end of 1999 it was very seldom that one found a Lab with separation anxiety even though they are dogs that are extremely social and love being with their people. However, as more and more puppy farmers have flooded the market due to the popularity of this wonderful breed, sadly, separation anxiety has become much more common, especially as this is one of the 'working' breeds, and owners are often just not providing what the dog needs. |
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Border Collie
This breed is one of my personal favourites! However, they are very high energy, extremely clever, and if they do not receive the necessary mental, physical and social stimulation, and are left alone for long periods of time, separation anxiety often develops. As with the Lab, this is a working breed, and often just does not get enough. |
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Poodles - Toy and Maltese Poodles, Bichon Frise (and often other small breeds)
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These lovely little dogs were bred to be companions to humans, and as such really do not do well, in general, with being left alone, especially for long periods of time. They are also clever breeds, so in addition to teaching them to spend time alone, mental and physical stimulation must be looked at.
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German Shepherd
Another extremely clever breed which is a working breed as well and really needs the extra mental and physical stimulation. They tend to be very attached to their owners, and as with the Lab, puppy farming seems to have had an effect on this breed, with more and more of them suffering from separation anxiety, which was not common in the past. |
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Cocker Spaniel
In our research there was mention of the King Charles Spaniels suffering from separation anxiety, however in our own experience we have come across a lot more Cocker Spaniels suffering from this condition than King Charles Spaniels. The Cocker spaniel is another breed which has been affected by puppy farming to its determent and if one of the working breeds as well. |
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