Separation Anxiety: The Price of Dog Domestication.

Separation anxiety in dogs is a behavioral disorder that occurs when the dog experiences intense discomfort when separated from its owner or caregiver. This discomfort can compromise the animal's well-being and the quality of coexistence. The most common symptoms include excessive vocalizations, destructive behaviors, inappropriate elimination, agitation, and physiological signs such as salivation and tachycardia. The causes may be linked to excessive attachment to the owner, past trauma, insufficient socialization, or genetic predisposition.

Unlike wild canids, which live in packs and experience short, non-traumatic separations, domestic dogs are more vulnerable to developing this disorder due to their exclusive relationship with humans. Diagnosis is based on direct observations and tools such as video monitoring and behavioral questionnaires, ruling out other causes.

Management of separation anxiety includes techniques such as systematic desensitization (training your dog to gradual separations), predictable routines, and environmental enrichment. In severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications to reduce symptoms.

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