The role of diet in controlling separation anxiety issues

The Role of Diet in Managing Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a complex condition, and many factors can exacerbate it. It is important to always seek professional help in extreme circumstances. As with anything, a balanced diet is a vital part of any recovery programme:

The bond between a dog and owner is strong and many dogs suffer from some degree of separation anxiety when they are away from their owner

Fresh dog food producer, Butternut Box, has provided a guide to help understand separation anxiety in dogs and help your dog to cope whilst you’re apart.

Separation anxiety: signs to look out for in dogs

Also known as separation related behaviour, separation anxiety occurs when a dog and owner are apart, leading to the dog feeling distressed and reacting with signs such as: • Destructive behaviour as a result of boredom, or your dog may frantically chew something that you recently touched that still carries your scent • Incontinence • Reports of howling and barking • Physiological signs of fear which can include an increase in heart rate, breathing, panting, salivating • Trembling, pacing, whining, and repetitive behaviour • In extreme cases self-mutilation and vomiting

Owners have often recorded their dogs at home alone to identify any concerning behaviour to make sure they’re as happy as they can be. After all, we now know what it’s like to be locked in the house all day bored and lonely — so why would we want that for our best friends?

Things you can do to treat minor separation anxiety

There are several things you can do to help your dog cope with separation anxiety. Firstly, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t leave a dog alone for too long. You should record your dog home alone first to assess the dog’s

reaction • Try not to make a big deal out of arriving and departing from your dog — calmly pet them • Leave your dog with an item of clothing you’ve recently worn • Teach your dog a word or action to signal you’ll return • Invest in over-the-counter calming products that can help reduce feelings of fear such as pheromone diffusers • Leave the radio on • A balanced and nutritious diet

Nutrition

Humans experience emotions as a result of their social situation — and dogs do too, facing struggles such as loneliness and boredom. And, like humans, we should never underestimate the importance of a healthy, wellbalanced diet. For example, research published in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour found that when dogs were fed a natural supplement derived from fish protein, their fear and anxiety was significantly reduced.

A healthy diet can have the ability to extend a dog’s life expectancy and reduce risks of cancer, obesity, and digestive issues. Unsurprisingly, there is evidence to suggest that changing a dog’s nutrition can also significantly reduce feelings of anxiety.

Meat by-products can also be used in some dry food, “animal derivatives” byproducts of the human food industry which may not be traditionally eaten by people.

So which foods are good to treat feelings of anxiety in dogs?

Vitamin D-og

Vitamin deficiencies can have a psychological effect on dogs — for example, vitamin E keeps dogs’ cognition functioning in tip-top condition and B vitamins can contribute to their mental balance. Specific foods that you can give your dog to ensure they get all the vitamins and minerals they need are: • Blueberries which can protect against stress • Kale for a cocktail of nutrients, such as vitamin A, B6, K, calcium, manganese, copper, potassium, iron, fibre, and antioxidants • Sweet potatoes that are packed with antioxidants • Beef which is a natural antidepressant with B vitamins • Turkey which is a great source of L-tryptophan • Oily fish for omega-3 fatty acids that suppress adrenaline production used in a dog’s fight or flight stress response

In addition to sourcing some healthy alternatives for your furry friend, it’s also important to ensure that you’re offering your pup a balanced diet. It’s essential to feed your dog a variety of protein and vegetables for adequate nutrition. So, try to move away from the repetitive dry food and help your dog transition to a variety of gently cooked dog food instead.

If you want to introduce new and exciting elements into your dog’s diet, but you’re concerned that you don’t have enough time to cook fresh meals every day, don’t fear! There are a number of subscription services out there which you can tailor to your pooch’s specific needs, whether you’re looking for gently cooked dog food, sensitive stomach dog food, or, in this case, dog food that will help with your dog’s anxiety levels and leave your pet feeling healthier than ever!

Diet alone might not cure dogs of anxiety, but it can help provide a platform of good gut health. If problems persist — particularly with extreme symptoms — then seek advice from a behaviourist and a veterinary professional.

Dogs will often spend their time alone just watching and waiting for you to return

Dogs face struggles with boredom and loneliness, just like humans