How Long Does Separation Anxiety Last with Dogs? A Top Dog Trainer in Kansas City Explains – September marks the end of summer and the start of school, and a trusted dog trainer in Kansas City understands how difficult this transition can be for your pet. Many dogs love having their owners home for the summer, especially kids that play with them all day. It can be challenging for your pet to adjust to a quiet, empty house; you might also notice their behavior changing.

Often, this behavior change is a sign of separation anxiety and can mean your dog is feeling more anxious than usual. Common signs of separation anxiety in dogs include getting nervous when you leave the house, being overly excited when you return and wrecking items in the home while you’re gone. Some levels of separation anxiety can be considered normal, but it’s crucial to talk with your dog’s vet if you believe it’s becoming too severe. 

At K.I.S.S. Dog Training, leader of Kansas City dog training, we believe that dogs are only as good as their owners; that’s why we stick to our motto, “keep it simple, stupid!” We understand that separation anxiety can be challenging for you and your pup, so we’ve compiled some information on how long it typically lasts.

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What is Separation Anxiety?

According to a leading Kansas City dog trainer, separation anxiety occurs when dogs become hyper-attached to their owners. When their owners leave, they become stressed and uncomfortable. Separation anxiety is more than whining and barking; it’s a serious condition that should be managed.

What Causes Separation Anxiety?

There are numerous things that can cause your dog to develop separation anxiety including a change of ownership, change in schedule, being left alone, and moving from a shelter to their new home. It’s vital to remember that separation anxiety is normal and that there are things you can do to manage it.

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What Are Common Signs of Separation Anxiety?

According to a leader of in home dog training in Kansas City, there are numerous signs that your dog is experiencing separation anxiety. Common signs include:

• Trying to escape
• Pacing
• Scratching at windows and doors
• Having accidents, even if they are house trained
• Excessive barking, howling, or whining

More than likely, your dog won’t do these things while you’re around, so it’s crucial to check for these behaviors after leaving your home.

How Long Does Separation Anxiety Last?

According to experts of dog training in Kansas City, there is no one correct answer to this; it all depends on variables both in and outside of your control. If you are consistent with training and try to stop leaving your dog alone, their separation anxiety will diminish quicker.

One of the best ways to help ease your pup’s social anxiety is to get them used to being alone for short durations of time. This can be done either in the crate or roaming free in the home. It’s crucial to give them a reward to normalize you leaving them by themselves. This must be mastered before you are able to leave them for longer periods of time. 

However, it’s vital to remember that some variables are outside your control. A dog behavior specialist in Kansas City understands that your pup can’t go with you everywhere, so it’s crucial to trust the process and work at your dog’s pace.

Hire a Leading Dog Trainer in Kansas City Today! 

K.I.S.S. Dog Training has been a leader in Kansas City dog training for over ten years. We take pride in strengthening the relationships between owners and their dogs. We believe it’s essential for humans to understand what their dog needs and the best ways to help them get it.

Contact us online or give us a call at 913-269-7595 to partner with a trainer. We are located in Shawnee and service Overland Park, Olathe, and the Kansas City metro area.