Anxiety in dogs is just as it is in us humans.
Not at all a nice thing to experience.
Although there are different types of anxiety in dogs, the most common is separation anxiety.
This is when your dog doesn’t like to be seperated from you.
Your dog knows that as his owner you are relied upon for feeding him, playing, taking him for walks.
When you are not there to do these things, and you are gone and he is alone, he becomes bored.
In sled dogs (huskies in particular) boredom can lead to destruction.
A husky is an intelligent dog who needs his mind stimulating.
They are also a pack animal, so if they are an only dog, they will become lonely, especially if their human has gone too.
The sooner you detect that your dog has separation anxiety, the sooner it can be treated.
Like anxiety in humans, the longer its left untreated, the harder it is to get rid of.
Some signs of anxiety in dogs are :
- barking or howling when owner isnt home
- pacing up and down
- panting heavily
- shivering / trembling
- hiding / cowering
- digging or escaping (although these are both natural traits for a husky)
- destroying furniture
- extensive chewing or licking to the point your dog is causing itself harm
- going off his food (again in huskies are natural trait)
- wanting to use the bathroom more frequently
- finding it hard to settle
Treating separation anxiety in dogs depends on the level of anxiety.
For very severe cases you may need to see a vet so your dog can be put on meds which may help calm him.
Just like anti depressants in humans that suffer from it.
However this is not dealing with the underlying problem its just prolonging it for a while.
The best way of treating separation anxiety is to gradually leave your dog alone for short periods of time.
Starting with five minutes and building on that.
Every time you return reassure your dog with plenty of hugs and stroking them.
This comforts them plus praises them for staying alone.
You would need to persevere with this. It will take time. You just need to be patient.
Just like a human that suffers badly from anxiety, they need to take baby steps.
If a person can’t go out of the house because their anxiety is too bad they wouldn’t treat it by going on a long journey to try and overcome it, they would be lucky to even walk to the car.
They would probably start by going and standing at their door for five minutes and repeat this through out the week.
Then if they still didnt feel comfortable with going out, extend the time they stand at the front door.
If they did feel a bit better they could take the next step in standing outside for five minutes.
It’s just as hard and scary for dogs as it is for humans.
In less anxious dogs, a thunder shirt is a good idea.
Just as a cuddle from their human will reassure them and make them feel safe, the shirt fits tight around them to do the same job.
A food game is also a good idea.
You can buy puzzle games for your dog to keep them occupied whilst your not home.
Using your dogs favourite treats in these games is a good idea.
Sled dog need company, so shouldnt be left alone for long periods of time.
They become bored easily, then destructive.
They need to be active.
Other forms of anxiety can be set off by loud noises or bangs, such as fireworks.
Thunder storms can also trigger anxiety.
A dog can also become anxious if it senses a trip to the vet or a marriage break up or a change in owners work hours, all of which interrupt the dogs routine.
Other forms of treatment for dogs with separation anxiety are :
a second dog to have as a companion, will stop your dog being lonely.
a pet sitter when you are out so again hes not left alone
doggie daycare so your dog has company and things to do
a crate in a quiet place in the house, covered over with the door left open can be a safe place for your dog to go
Perseverance and patience are a must as is love and affection.
Take one day at a time, dont rush things.
Even the most anxious of dogs can be totally different given time
