EXCLUSIVE: I’m a professional dog trainer. These are the six breeds most likely to suffer separation anxiety (and how to snap them out of it)

Australia
By William

By Rob Waugh for Dailymail.Com

Published: | Updated:

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to dogs, and some breeds are much more likely to be in distress if left alone.

Lorna Winter, dog trainer and co-founder of puppy training app ZigZag, said that while ‘separation anxiety can affect any dog, regardless of breed, size or sociability’, there are six breeds that are at higher risk than the rest of the pack. .

She told DailyMail.com: ‘In many cases, what we commonly label as ‘separation anxiety’ can be more accurately described as isolation distress, which means that your puppy associates happiness with human company, regardless of the specific individual, and becomes uncomfortable when left alone left. .’

Winter said the classic signs of separation anxiety include excessive panting, whining, crying, refusing to eat, restlessness or pacing, excessive barking and destroying things like carpets or walls.

Below are the six varieties:

Lorna Winter, dog trainer and co-founder of puppy training app ZigZag

Chihuahua

Winter said, “Chihuahuas make great pampered lap dogs; their small bodies are the perfect companion on the couch.

‘Despite being smart and having the largest brains (relative to their size) of any dog, they are very prone to separation anxiety.

Dachshund

Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety

Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety

Winter said, “A sausage dog! Tall bodies, big personalities and full of mischief.

‘Although they are an independent dog and may seem like they don’t need you; they can suffer a lot from separation anxiety.’

Broke

Beagles can suffer from separation anxiety

Beagles can suffer from separation anxiety

Winter said: ‘Beagles are eager to please, but they are not pre-programmed to know what is ‘good’ behavior and what is not.

“It’s up to you to teach your Beagle the tricks of the trade so that he becomes the polite and calm companion you hoped for.”

French Bulldog

French bulldogs are cute, but can suffer from separation anxiety

French bulldogs are cute, but can suffer from separation anxiety

Winter said: ‘The Frenchie has an irresistible charm and is known for being playful, alert and adaptable.

‘However, these little rascals are known to suffer from separation anxiety.’

Australian Shepherd

Winter said: ‘The Australian Shepherd, the herding dog par excellence, exhibits an irresistible urge to herd everything!

“This strong work ethic and boundless energy may make this pup too big of a dog for a sedentary pet owner.”

‘Because they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation before being left alone; I recommend taking them on sniffer walks and letting your Australian Shepherd explore different places and smells, rather than compulsive fetch sessions.

“This will give you the best results for tiring them out and reducing anxiety.”

Border collie

Winter said: ‘Border Collies are incredibly athletic and are packed with boundless energy and stamina.

‘These furry friends are known for their uncanny ability to please people, and they almost live to make their owners laugh.

“But be careful, their devotion runs so deep that they may develop a hint of separation anxiety if you’re not there to bask in their adoration!”

Lorna Winter’s tips on how to deal with separation anxiety

Tip: Sounds can be a great pacifier for an anxious dog. Classical music stations are pretty good, or you can use hour-long YouTube playlists made specifically for dog relaxation – just don’t play the same thing all the time – no one needs an earworm!

Tip: Using enrichment devices, puzzle toys, and positive reinforcement training will activate the “seeking” part of your dog’s brain. This will be a great help in problem solving, which in turn will help them with their overall coping skills. It’s also a great way to distract them from anxiety and can relieve their stress.

Tip: Try widening your puppy’s social circle by taking him out with a licensed and insured dog walker or book a puppy socialization class with your local trainer. This means that your puppy will be well cared for and will not have to be alone for hours.

Tip: Ensuring your puppy is well fed before leaving the house can help reduce anxiety levels. You know how terrible this feeling is. Low blood sugar makes everyone irritable, so make sure they have a full belly!

Tip: One of the biggest hurdles for dogs with separation anxiety is owners leaving through the front door. For them, the front door is a portal that swallows you whole into another dimension from which you may never return! Gradually get them used to the idea by approaching the door, opening it and then walking away for a while.

Tip: It’s a common assumption to think that your puppy won’t develop anxiety because he seems confident or sociable. It is important to understand that separation anxiety can affect any dog, regardless of breed, size or sociability. By learning which breeds are most affected and becoming familiar with the warning signs, you can decide what steps are needed to support your pup.

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