Causes to Seperation Anxiety
“Why do dogs develop seperation anxiety?”
There are several leading causes to seperation anxiety:
- Some dog breeds are more likely to undergo anxiety and insecurity, which is something you should think about when deciding which breed you are going to get - particularly if you are going to be gone for long periods of time. Some of these breeds include Boston Terriers, Springer Spaniels, Weimaraners, Airedales, and German Shepherds.
- Many dogs from shelters also develop separation anxiety. Most of the dogs that come from shelters went through substantial trauma in their lives and have been deserted by their previous owners. This gives them very little trust that their new owner isn’t going to do the same thing.
- Dogs that were separated from their mothers & siblings too early are also more likely to have separation anxiety. Puppies from pet stores are a perfect example of this. They are usually taken from their mothers well before the earliest possible age(eight weeks). They are then confined to a small glass box in the pet store for anywhere between a few weeks to two months. This early weaning, combined with the lack of exercise & affection while in the pet store is psychologically traumatic for the puppy.
- Neglect is the number one cause of sepration anxiety for dogs. If you are gone more than you are present in your dog’s life, separation anxiety is very likely. Your dog needs your company, attention, and affection to be happy and content.