In this blog, we discuss separation anxiety in puppies. In Dutch, we often call it separation fear, which is not a term we would not prefer to use. This is because the underlying emotion is often not so much fear, but panic or sadness. In many cases, a dog is simply sad because their owner has left the house, and wonders whether the owner will ever return, hence the panic.
Normal Behavior in a Puppy
Unfortunately, separation anxiety also occurs in puppies. Puppies become attached to their own litter and breeder, and then suddenly find themselves in a new environment. For a puppy, it is perfectly logical to follow the new owner around the house and to become attached to that person. After all, “you have become their new source of support”. This is completely normal behaviour. Usually, if guided well, this behavior will decrease as the puppy gets older.
Yet Your Dog Develops Separation Anxiety…
Sadly, even with proper guidance, a puppy may still develop separation anxiety and all the consequences that come with it. Why this develops in one puppy and not in another is unknown. It is possible that, despite all good intentions, you may have progressed too quickly with your training and then find yourself stuck, resulting in your puppy developing separation anxiety after all. Or perhaps you have adopted a puppy who has never lived in a home before, but has always lived on the streets.
Help with Separation Anxiety
In such cases, it is useful to consult a separation anxiety specialist. We work with certified separation anxiety experts and can help and guide you in teaching your puppy to be home alone. We assist owners in gradually building up the training.
