How to Relieve Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Is your dog unusually distressed when you leave home these days? It could be because they got used to having you around all the time over the past few months. Here’s how you can help your pet.
If your dog destroys the house when left alone, you may want to look into using CBD oil for dog separation anxiety. As pet parents across the country stop working or studying at home and return to school or the office, some dogs are finding it hard to cope.
After months of having their humans around almost 24/7, some pets are struggling to adjust to the new normal. If your dog seems to be having a hard time, there are many things you can try. Along with other interventions, some owners are turning to CBD products to help their pets get relief. If you’re curious about the use of CBD for dogs’ anxiety, keep reading. We’ll look at what separation anxiety is, how you can identify it and what you can do about it.
What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a condition in which dogs show signs of distress and behavioral issues when they are away from their humans. Their reactions may vary from mild depression to panic. Many people turn to CBD for dogs’ anxiety because their pet is noticeably upset when they leave the house or even go into a different room. The animal wants constant attention and physical contact. It is not clear why some dogs experience separation anxiety. However, rescue pets and certain breeds are more vulnerable.
Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation anxiety can be triggered by certain events such as:
- Moving to a new home
- Moving in with a new family
- Dealing with the loss or extended absence of a family member.
- Being left alone for tor the first time
- Feeling abandoned
- Changes to the household makeup or routine
Regardless of why the condition occurs, it can be difficult for both the pet and the pet parent to handle. However, once you can identify what is causing your dog’s behavior, you can help them. Talk to your vet and see what they would recommend. You may need to ask them directly about using CBD oil for dogs with separation anxiety since some may not be forthcoming about this option.
Signs of Separation Anxiety
Every animal is different. One dog will start to whine or bark as soon as you pick up your keys or make your way to the door. However, another dog chews everything when left alone. Some common signs of separation anxiety include:
- Not eating
- Acting restless or pacing
- Barking, howling, and whining
- Drooling or panting
- Trying to escape
- Scratching at the windows and doors
- Destroying things in the house
- Urinating, defecating, or throwing up in the house
- Following you around the house when you return
These are just some of the indicators that you should look into before using CBD oil for dog separation anxiety. However, they could also be signs of something else such as boredom, a physical health issue, or inadequate training. That’s why talking to a vet is so important.
Tips for Handling Dogs Who Have Separation Anxiety
While many pet owners are curious about using “weed” for dogs with anxiety, you should never try to give THC for dog anxiety. You need to use CBD-only products while trying other possible solutions to help your dog calm down. Here are some of the things you can do.
Ensure the Dog Feels Safe
Many dog owners find it helpful to confine their pets in one space. Make this area feel as safe and comfortable as possible by filling it with toys and blankets. This can create a positive experience for the dog even when you’re at home.
Resist the Urge to Punish Your Dog
It’s very frustrating when a dog misbehaves but you shouldn’t show anger or punish your dog. This won’t help the situation and it could even make it worse since the dog will realize that it gets your attention when it does something negative.
Help The Dog Adjust to Spending Time Away from You
If your dog follows you around the house, help them to become more independent by providing treats when they follow your command to sit or stay while you walk away. Leave the room for progressively longer periods to help them adjust. Be sure to give them lots of love before you leave so they associate leaving with positive attention.
Ensure Your Dog Gets Lots of Exercise
It’s a good idea to let your dog get lots of exercise before you leave them. This will help to relieve their stress and tire them out, making them less likely to destroy things or mope around when you’re gone.
Using CBD for Dog Separation Anxiety
You’re probably familiar with people using CBD to relieve their anxiety, but you may not know that it may also help pets. Some pet owners use CBD oil or CBD dog treats for separation anxiety and stress.
How Does It Help
How does CBD work on dogs with separation anxiety? Dogs have endocannabinoid systems just like people do. They also have cannabinoid receptors in their brains, organs, and nervous systems which release endocannabinoid chemicals to stabilize their mood. CBD can interact with the endocannabinoid system to increase serotonin in the brain. This might help animals to calm down and cope with their owner’s absence.
Dosage
Several factors will affect how much CBD you give your dog, including their size and the severity of their condition. Typically, people give two milligrams per ten pounds of body weight. You should start with a low dose and monitor the dog’s reaction so you can either maintain or increase the dosage as necessary. Please see our Beginner’s Guide for dosage suggestions.
Get High-Quality CBD for Dogs from The Cat’s Meow Wellness
Separation anxiety can be alleviated over time if you start giving your dog the support they need. If you want premium CBD oil for dogs with separation anxiety, choose from the pet products we offer at The Cat’s Meow Wellness. Shop with us today or contact us if you have questions.