My older dog barks and gets anxious when I leave. Is it separation anxiety?

If separation anxiety is suspected, the first step is to discuss the situation with a veterinarian and have the dog undergo a complete physical examination. It is important to make sure that a dog's behavior is truly due to separation anxiety and not from something else. For instance,a dog may bark when alone because he feels he is protecting his property or because he can hear another dog. A veterinarian may recommend some testing to determine if a dog has an underlying medical problem, which could contribute to behavior problems or make them worse. This is important considering he is suspected to have developed anxiety recently and quite suddenly. Tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), a chemistry panel, urinalysis, thyroid testing, a blood pressure check, and an electrocardiogram (ECG). These tests will also be important to evaluate the health status of a dog prior to being placed on any medication.

Hello. It sounds like Andie has separation anxiety. This can happen to dogs of any age, but often occurs with younger dogs. There are some good tips on aaha.org under the pet owner section. At home, try and make his routine constant, dogs thrive on routine. When you get home, try and ignore him for 15 minutes so he doesn't just look forward to your return the whole time you are gone. I would also seek advice from a trainer and if those things don't work you can try behavioral mediations. I also like solliquin for anxiety, it's a natural calming aid and can be purchased from your vet. Good luck!

I would first make sure there is nothing underlying with Corduroy. It seems like there has always been a bit of separation anxiety with him and with his history I would say it is less likely medical. I would talk to your veterinarian about medicine to help Corduroy especially when you are not home. Sometimes getting a second dog does help, while other times it does not. It may be where he may calm down a bit but since his anxiety is getting worse quickly I would recommend doing a trial of medication. While you are trying the medication I would also consult with a behaviorist or a trainer to help with the situation. Your veterinarian should be able to give you names of either a veterinary behaviorist in your area or a trainer that they trust. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Percy. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian to discuss his behavior. He may be developing separation anxiety. This can be a difficult condition and is easier to manage when intervention starts early. The veterinarian will examine him and make sure that physically he is healthy. Then behavioral modifications can be discussed. Some times medications are needed in extreme cases. I hope this information helps!

Choppee should be examined by a vet if you think he has vision problems or may have sudden separation anxiety. Your vet can run some lab-work to look for medical reasons and then determine if treatment is needed. He could be developing separation anxiety or have some cognitive dysfunction and your vet may be able to prescribe medications to help.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I agree with you. This is possibly separation anxiety which is actually way more common than people think. While there are behavioral medications that may help, I still prefer more behavioral modifications such as increasing the frequency of those times that you are separated to get her more used to it but more importantly, start rewarding her for when she behaves well when left alone. You can do this with praise and of course treats. If this does not work, there are medications that can be used for this purpose which your veterinarian may be able to prescribe if deemed useful at that time. Good luck and have a good night!

You are correct there could be something else going on. In senior dogs like Molly, they can develop a condition called canine cognitive dysfunction. This is similar to dementia in humans, and it would cause her to behavior strangely at times. I would have Molly seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose if she does have cognitive canine dysfunction by doing a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays to rule out any health problems that could potentially cause her symptoms. If canine cognitive dysfunction is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment with you. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed with mediations, behavioral therapy, and special diets.