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Separation anxiety is not exclusive to one dog breed. All dogs are susceptible to getting stressed out when they are left alone. Unfortunately, Cockapoos, just like any other dog, can become anxious when they are separated from their owners. So, if your adult Cockapoo or puppy is exhibiting behaviors like crying and excessive barking when you go out, it may be experiencing separation anxiety.
What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety can manifest in a dog of any age or breed. The dog will exhibit behaviors because it cannot tolerate being left alone for any amount of time. The dog will only be comfortable when you are with them. In some cases, the dog will need to be close by all the time and will constantly follow you around.
Here are some of the ways your dog may exhibit signs of anxiety.
- When left alone, the dog may pace or be antsy. It will not be able to settle down.
- It may whine and cry when you leave it alone or when you leave the room.
- The dog may bark excessively. The barking may continue for unusually lengthy periods of time.
- The dog may start to mess in the house.
- The dog may not want to share your attention and is very clingy. It will be pushy when you are engaged in conversation with someone else and will not like it when you pet or pay attention to another dog.
- It needs constant physical contact.
- When the dog is expected to settle in their bed or crate, it may refuse if you are in another room or when you leave the house.
- The dog may be unable to settle at night if it is in a different room. It will be restless and crying.
- The dog may exhibit destructive behaviors when it is left home alone.
What Causes Cockapoos to Suffer From Separation Anxiety?
One of the things that cockapoos are bred for is companionship. They tend to be playful and highly social animals that like to be in the company of humans and other dogs. They are an intelligent and energetic breed that needs mental stimulation and physical exercise. Dogs that find it difficult to spend time in a calm fashion can be more prone to separation anxiety.
How to Prevent Separation Anxiety
Cockapoos are social animals that enjoy being with humans. Pet owners also like to spend time with their pets, but they have other responsibilities like jobs or kids too. So, it is important for your dog to be comfortable spending time alone and not engage in troubling behaviors like barking and destroying property.
Establishing boundaries and routines are essential as soon as the dog is brought into your home. Doing so will help your pup know what is expected and help to make it feel safe and secure.
In the beginning a new pup should not be left alone for a long time. If possible, try not to leave it alone for longer than four hour stretches. Toys and hidden treats can help to occupy the dog while you are absent and help to prevent boredom and stress.
Providing background noise, like the TV or music, will also help reassure the dog.
Managing a Cockapoo With Separation Anxiety
Taking the proper steps to prevent your cockapoo from developing separation anxiety is less challenging than correcting the issue afterward.
Separation anxiety has varying degrees of severity and we would recommend those dealing with severe distress should see a veterinarian and behaviorist to help with a behavior modification plan.
If you have a cockapoo that is already exhibiting behaviors consistent with separation anxiety, there are some things you can do to retrain your pup so it can be left alone with less commotion.
- Avoid leaving the dog alone for long stretches at a time. The anticipation of you being gone for a long time when you leave the house is ensuring that it will start to carry on as soon as you leave. It will be distressed even when you leave for short periods.
- Meet the dog’s needs when you are at home. Take it for a walk and give it some quality attention. Exercise and stimulation will help it to be calm and content.
- Give them enough opportunities to relieve themselves. If the dog must wait too long, they may have an accident in the house, and it will add to its stress.
- Resolving separation anxiety in an adult cockapoo may require retraining the dog and is best guided by a registered behaviorist. You will need to go back to the beginning and teach the dog boundaries, routines, and rules. Knowing what to expect may help to curb stress and anxiety.
- Slowly increase the length of time they are left alone starting with simply just preparing to leave the home or stepping out the door. You should take your time, do not rush the process, and be patient. It can take weeks or months for the dog to retrain and feel secure.
- Do not leave the dog for extended periods of time. The dog should be praised and rewarded every time you return home.
Conclusion
If you have a cockapoo that is exhibiting anxious behaviors, it can be stressful for both you and the dog. Knowing what to do will help ease the pup’s anxiety and will allow both of you to be calm and happy.
Remember, cockapoos need companionship, routines, and guidance to feel safe and secure. If you are dealing with a cockapoo with separation anxiety we strongly advise you to seek the advice of your veterinarian.
Featured Image Credit: Lee Ph, Shutterstock
