As a dog owner, it’s heartbreaking to watch your furry friend struggle with separation anxiety. Many dogs experience anxiety when their humans leave the house, and the symptoms can range from mild restlessness to more severe behaviours like excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even accidents in the house. If you’ve noticed these signs in your dog, you may be wondering how to help ease their anxiety. Fortunately, there are solutions to help your dog feel more comfortable and relaxed when you’re not around. One highly effective way to manage separation anxiety in dogs is through calming supplements, such as Advanced Support for Calming, which contains a blend of natural ingredients like KSM-66® Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm, Passion Flower, L-Tryptophan, Chamomile, and Valerian.
In this blog, we’ll explore what separation anxiety is, why dogs experience it, and how supplements can help. Let’s dive into how you can support your dog’s emotional well-being. What is separation anxiety in dogs?
Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes distressed when left alone or separated from their primary caregiver. It’s a behavioural condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, although certain breeds may be more prone to it. This anxiety stems from the dog’s fear of being abandoned, and it can result in a range of behaviors such as:
- Excessive barking or howling
- Destructive chewing (especially furniture or personal items)
- Digging or scratching at doors or windows
- Attempting to escape the crate or designated area
- Accidents in the house (urination or defecation)
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
The severity of the anxiety can vary, but untreated separation anxiety can lead to long-term behavioural issues and stress, affecting both your dog and your household.
Why do dogs experience separation anxiety?
There are several reasons a dog may develop separation anxiety:
1. Attachment to their owner
Dogs are social animals and often form strong emotional bonds with their owners. When they are left alone, they may feel a sense of abandonment or fear that their caregiver is never coming back.
2. Change in routine or environment
Significant changes in your dog’s routine, such as a move to a new home, changes in your work schedule, or the loss of another pet or family member, can trigger separation anxiety. These changes can disrupt the sense of security your dog has and cause heightened stress.
3. Past trauma
Dogs that have been through traumatic experiences, such as being abandoned, abused, or surrendered to a shelter, may be more likely to develop separation anxiety. Their previous negative experiences can cause them to associate being left alone with fear or discomfort.
4. Lack of socialisation
Puppies that are not properly socialised or that have had limited exposure to being alone may struggle to develop the coping skills necessary to manage time spent away from their owners.
How can you help your dog with separation anxiety?
There are several ways to help alleviate your dog’s anxiety when you’re not around:
1. Establish a routine
Dogs thrive on consistency. Try to establish a regular routine that includes set feeding times, exercise schedules, and time alone. This can help your dog feel more secure and reduce feelings of unpredictability when you leave.
2. Provide a safe space
Create a comfortable, secure area for your dog to stay in when you’re away. This could be a crate, a designated room, or a cozy bed where they feel safe. Having familiar toys, blankets, or items with your scent can also help soothe their anxiety.
3. Desensitise your dog
Gradually get your dog used to being alone by starting with short periods of separation and slowly increasing the time you are away. This method, known as desensitisation, helps your dog build tolerance and feel more secure over time.
4. Calming supplements
In addition to behavioral modifications, calming supplements can play a crucial role in easing your dog’s anxiety. Natural ingredients such as KSM-66® Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm, Passion Flower, L-Tryptophan, Chamomile, and Valerian are known to have calming properties that can help relax your dog’s nervous system.
How Advanced Support for Calming can help
Advanced Support for Calming is a natural and effective solution to support your dog’s emotional health and help manage separation anxiety. This supplement contains a blend of ingredients that work synergistically to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Here’s how each ingredient helps:
1. KSM-66® Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. KSM-66® is a high-quality, clinically studied form of ashwagandha that helps balance your dog’s stress response, promoting a calmer state of mind.
2. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a calming herb that can help alleviate anxiety and stress. It has been shown to have a soothing effect on the nervous system, making it a great option for dogs who struggle with anxiety-related behaviours.
3. Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata)
Passion flower is another herbal remedy known for its calming effects. It has been traditionally used to treat anxiety and insomnia, and it can help ease your dog’s nervousness when left alone.
4. L-Tryptophan
L-Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. By boosting serotonin levels, L-Tryptophan can promote relaxation and improve mood, helping to reduce anxiety and stress.
5. Chamomile
Chamomile is well-known for its soothing properties, both for humans and dogs. It can help calm your dog’s nervous system and promote relaxation, making it easier for them to handle separation from their owner.
6. Valerian
Valerian root is a natural sedative that can help reduce anxiety and promote a restful state. It’s particularly useful for dogs that have difficulty settling down or calming their minds.
Why choose Advanced Support for Calming?
1. Natural ingredients
Advanced Support for Calming contains a carefully selected blend of natural, calming ingredients that are safe and effective for dogs. There are no harsh chemicals or sedatives, so your dog can experience a gentle sense of calm without drowsiness.
2. Easy to use
This supplement is in a convenient powder form that you can easily sprinkle over your dog’s food. It’s a simple and hassle-free way to support your dog’s emotional well-being.
3. Supports overall relaxation
In addition to helping with separation anxiety, Advanced Support for Calming can also assist with other stress-related behaviours, such as fear of loud noises, car rides, or trips to the vet.
Separation anxiety is a common issue for many dogs, but with the right support, your dog can learn to manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable when you’re not around. By providing a consistent routine, a safe environment, and natural calming supplements like Advanced Support for Calming, you can help your dog feel more secure and relaxed.
