Have you ever felt guilty about leaving your furry friend home alone? You’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle with the thought of their pup experiencing separation anxiety while they’re away.
Researchers from the University of Pisa in Italy experimented with ten dogs to determine the effects of gentle petting before a brief separation from their owners.1
The results were clear—dogs who received affectionate touch before their owner’s departure showed more calm behaviors and had lower heart rates than those who were ignored.
Here is how to incorporate petting into your dog’s daily routine to reduce separation anxiety.
The Science Behind Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is common among dogs, especially those who are hyper-attached to their owners. When left alone, these dogs can experience extreme stress, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, and excessive barking.
But what causes this anxiety in the first place? Experts believe it can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Being left alone for the first time or when they are used to constant human companionship
- Changes in family routine or schedule
- Loss of a family member or other significant life changes
While severe cases of separation anxiety may require professional intervention, a recent study suggests that a simple act of affection can go a long way in reducing mild symptoms.
The Power of Touch
The concept of using touch to calm anxious dogs isn’t entirely new. Previous research has shown that human contact can reduce stress in shelter dogs and that dogs respond positively to physical interaction with their owners.
However, this is the first study to specifically examine the effects of petting before a separation.
So why is touch so powerful? Experts believe it comes down to releasing oxytocin, the “love hormone.” When dogs are petted, their bodies release oxytocin, which has been shown to have a calming effect and promote bonding.
By engaging in this positive interaction before leaving, owners can help their dogs associate their departure with a pleasant experience.
Putting It into Practice
If you’re interested in trying this technique with your dog, the researchers recommend the following steps:
- Engage in one minute of gentle petting and soothing talk before leaving your dog alone.
- Keep your departure calm and low-key to avoid triggering anxiety.
- When you return, greet your dog calmly and wait until they are relaxed before engaging in play or other high-energy activities.
It’s important to note that this technique is most effective for dogs with mild separation anxiety.
If your dog exhibits severe symptoms, such as destructive behavior or excessive vocalization, it’s best to consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for personalized treatment options.
The Bottom Line
We dog owners want our furry companions to feel safe, loved, and content. While leaving them alone can be stressful for both parties, this new research offers hope.
Taking a few extra moments to show our dogs affection before we leave can help them feel more at ease and reduce the likelihood of separation anxiety.
So, give your pup extra love the next time you head out the door.
A little petting can go a long way toward strengthening your bond and promoting a happier, healthier life for your four-legged friend.
Other Things That Can Help
ThunderShirt is vet recommended¹ and may help calm your dog in stressful situations. ThunderShirt applies a gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s torso, like swaddling an infant or a comforting hug to help them feel calmer.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.