Your Dachshund loves spending time with you. But what happens when he gets too attached, becoming agitated or destructive when you're not around? Or never leaving your side when you're home? It does happen. The condition is called Separation Anxiety and can cause your dog to suffer greatly, both emotionally and physically.
Dachshund's most commonly experience Separation Anxiety between the ages of 9 months and 2 years. But it also occurs with dogs entering their senior years, when their sensory world diminishes, and they are more and more dependent on the people around them. Fortunately, no matter when a dog experiences this problem, there's something you can do to help.
You've gone out, he's stressed out
A Dachshund expresses Separation Anxiety in a number of ways. While you're out, or on your way out he may:
*Destroy things
*Lick themselves until your return
*Soil inside the house
*Vocalize, whining or barking continuously
*Hyper-salivate
*Pace obsessively
*Refuse to eat when you're not around
*Greet you excessively when you return home
*Remain very close to you
*Become distressed when you move away from him, even when taking out the trash
*Be restless or depressed as you prepare to leave
A Dachshund's level of anxiety can vary. But with Separation Anxiety his behavior when you're away is consistently different from his behavior when you're around.
Keep him calm and collected
Any Dachshund who shows these symptoms should be taken to a Veterinarian with a strong background in behavioral medicine. Once everyone's certain of the diagnosis there are three key treatment options:
1. Control his environment. A busy Dachshund is a satisfied Dachshund. Give him something to do-such as a fun treat that requires some time to eat-and he may not be as concerned that you're gone. If he becomes destructive, consider crating him to keep him from hurting himself or destroying the house. And never adopt a second pet and expect it to keep your Dachshund company - this usually doesn't work.
2. Shift his behavior. Don't punish him for feeling anxious, that may make things worse. Try these suggestions:
Avoid playing with him prior to leaving the house
Practice graduated departures. Go through some of the steps associated with you leaving the house several times per day, but don't leave.
Practice departure exercises. Go out two times per day for 10-15 minutes each time. He should be taught to sit (or lie down) while you go toward the door, step outside and remain for a short period of time. Increase your time away gradually so he gets used to you going - while feeling reassured that you will return. The goal is to teach him that he can be obedient and relaxed when you're not there.
Practice independence training. During day-to-day routines, such as watching television, instruct your Dachshund to stay some distance away instead of allowing him to sit in your lap or be touching you.
While you're out, provide soothing music or a television at a low volume. To an anxious dog, silence can be deafening.
Make sure not to make a big deal when you leave or come home. Ignore your dog for 10-20 minutes before leaving and after arrival - as difficult as this may be, it works.
Don't reward clingy behavior. Ignore your Dachshund if he follows you around or demands attention. And reward him when he lies quietly.
3. Medicate as a last resort. There are prescriptions that may help ease your Dachshunds anxiety. Consult your vet for full details and options.
