Separation anxiety is triggered when dogs become upset because of separation from their guardians, the people they're attached to. Escape attempts by dogs with separation anxiety are often extreme and can result in self-injury and household destruction, especially around exit points like windows and doors.
Dogs engage in destructive behavior because they need an outlet to release excess energy, or to relieve fear and anxiety. Just as people exercise or chew gum to relieve anxiousness, dogs react by chewing, jumping or barking.
DOGS DO NOT PARTICIPATE IN DESTRUCTIVE ACTIVITIES OUT OF SPITE OR REVENGE. Dogs often behave destructively to relieve anxiety or as an outlet for excess energy. While people may exercise, chew on their nails or have a drink to relieve tension, dogs tend to chew, lick excessively, pace or house-soil when anxious.
Put valuable objects away until you're confident that your dog's chewing behavior is restricted to appropriate items. Keep shoes and clothing in a closed closest, dirty laundry in a hamper and books on shelves. Make it easy for your dog to succeed. Provide your dog with plenty of his own toys and inedible chew bones.
“In my experience, the four most common breeds of dogs that exhibit signs of separation anxiety are typically Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas (both mixed breeds and standards), German Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels”, says Dr.
When you do catch your dog chewing, stop it with a verbal command or a loud noise. When your dog stops, provide a chew toy. When your dog starts chewing on the toy, provide praise and positive reinforcement.
Anxiety in dogs is seldom a simple diagnosis
If your dog is nervous, and maybe even somewhat fearful at times, it's wise to look deeply into what may be causing these behavioral issues and then devise a plan to help your dog become more confident. An anxious dog is an unhappy dog.
Separation anxiety is triggered when dogs become upset because of separation from their guardians, the people they're attached to. Escape attempts by dogs with separation anxiety are often extreme and can result in self-injury and household destruction, especially around exit points like windows and doors.
Owners report destructive chewing when the dog is anywhere between six and ten months of age. Different breeds and sizes of dogs hit this stage of development at different times. Severity of damage depends on the individual dog's level of pain tolerance.
There are two main causes of why a dog destroys furniture; either the dog is teething, or the dog is very bored. Puppies generally begin to teeth around 4 to 6 months of age. The teething period normally lasts between 2 and 3 months. When a puppy is teething, he or she will start to chew on almost anything.
The most common behaviors are elimination (i.e., urination and/or bowel movements), destruction and excessive vocalization (i.e., barking, crying). Pet owners may also observe excessive panting and/or pacing. Separation anxiety is the most common specific anxiety in companion dogs.
Dogs do not have a significant short-term memory, so they most likely don't remember all the times they destroyed our homes.
Tips to soothe a nervous dog
Speak in soothing, quiet tones in a high-pitched register (if possible). Reassure your dog with your words: let them know you are there, they are safe and that everything is going to be okay. Never yell at or scold your dog when they're nervous or fearful.
Dogs that seem scared of everything can be products of nature and nurture. A dog's genetic makeup, early experiences, environment and daily life can all have an impact on their temperament.
If your dog only starts destroying things after you have left the house for a certain amount of time, it's probably simply doing so out of boredom. In fact, boredom is the most common trigger for destructive behaviour amongst dogs.
It will finish when their adult teeth are fully grown in, typically between 6-8 months of age. That said, adult dogs still love to chew, and some dogs are heavy chewers by nature. As long as they aren't destructive with it, it's to be encouraged and is actually very good for them.
Hitting or beating is thought to discourage bad behaviors when applied with the proper force, timing, and redirection. However, pain-based aversive techniques are risky. Studies show that they significantly increase stress, lower a dog's quality of life, and may even increase dog aggression.
Unfortunately, puppies don't just grow out of separation anxiety. If you leave it untreated, it will likely just get worse, and it certainly won't get any better! However, thankfully, it's not too difficult to treat and just takes a little TLC and training.