September 14, 2022

Are Cavapoos Prone to Separation Anxiety?

It is common for Cavapoos to suffer from separation anxiety. This is because they are loving and affectionate dogs, they love being with their owners and are happy doing anything if their owner is nearby.

We’ll discuss separation anxiety in the rest of this piece and share tips on how to help your puppy and stop him suffering from it.

Cavapoo puppy separation anxiety

Why do Cavapoo get separation anxiety?

This warm clingy personality makes them more prone to separation anxiety.

If you’re the proud owner of an adorable Cavapoo, you’ll know how much they yearn to be with you. This makes them great pets but could give rise to a problem.

Without further ado, let’s dig into the detail.

Cavapoo puppy separation anxiety

Eight out of ten dogs suffer from separation anxiety, with Cavapoos being one of the breeds most prone to it because they tend to be clingy.

It occurs when a puppy is left alone somewhere – whether in the home or elsewhere – without its owner.

Signs of separation anxiety include:

  • Exhibiting anxious behaviour when he spots that you’re about to leave.
  • Acting up when you’ve left or showing signs of depression.
  • Destroying, scratching, or chewing things when alone.
  • Trying to escape.
  • Howling or constant barking.
  • Restless, fast pacing.
  • Peeing and pooing in the house.

It is important to realise, however, that some dogs may not show physical manifestations of separation anxiety, even if they are suffering from it. It is therefore crucial to ensure that your Cavapoo is not distressed when left alone.

If your pup’s anxiety remains unchecked, it could develop into a disorder.

A good way to check if your pooch suffers separation anxiety if they show no outward signs of it is to compare their behaviour when you are with them to how they act when left alone. You could use a camera to help you do this.

The disorder is more prevalent in Cavapoos that have been adopted from shelters because they could have gone through multiple big changes in their lives which can mean they are predisposed to developing disorders.

Causes of separation anxiety

There are many potential reasons why a dog may suffer from separation anxiety, but they differ depending on a dog’s life experience and circumstance. Here are some of the most common causes and triggers for it.

  • Moving to a new house.
  • Separated from a previous owner.
  • An absent family member who is usually around the dog often.
  • An abrupt change in routine.
  • They feel frightened or unsafe.
Are puppy pads a good idea

Do puppies grow out of separation anxiety?

Unfortunately, puppies do not just grow out of separation anxiety, and it might worsen if ignored. It can also happen at any age. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to help which are not difficult and just require a little love and attention.

It is worth noting that puppies are much less likely to suffer from separation anxiety if you begin good separation training at an early age. All breeds can be affected by it, with some breeds being more likely to suffer from it than others.

Now, let’s talk about how you can help your puppy.

How do I stop my puppy's separation anxiety?

It’s never fun to watch your beloved pup suffer. Luckily, there are ways to deal with and eventually stop separation anxiety so that they can better cope with loneliness.

Read my article on "How often should I let my dog out."

Crate training

If you think your pup has separation anxiety because he is scared or doesn’t feel secure, crate training may be the perfect solution.

Well trained dogs will come to see their crate as a haven. Distressed dogs need to know that they can get away from a situation, seek refuge in their crate and calm their anxiety.

Teach them to make positive associations with their crate by feeding them meals inside it and allow them to play with special tools when inside it. Read our post on leaving your dog downstairs at night to learn more about getting your dog used to being left alone through crate training.

Crate training for Cavapoo

Give them more exercise

Dogs love exercise. Check out this post if you’re curious about how much exercise a Cavapoo needs to be happy.

Tiring your pup out by giving them plenty of exercise and opportunities to play is a sure-fire way to combat separation anxiety.

A tired, content dog is likely to fuss than a pup that has lots of built-up energy to release.

Create background noise

You could try to stop your pup feeling alone by creating some background, perhaps by leaving the radio on.

Medication

Medication should only be used as a last resort and in consultation with a vet. If no other method is working, speak to your vet about appropriate medication for your pup.

Remember, separation anxiety is much easier to prevent than it is to stop. Therefore, you should give your pup the best home environment possible and start proper training as early as you can to prevent them from suffering from any sort of anxiety.

Make a point of leaving your dog alone for a little while, slowly increasing the length of time you leave them alone, so they gradually get used to you not being with them for a few hours. This will give your pup a confidence boost.

Take baby steps when you begin crate training your pup, until you reach your goal. Patience is key.

You should also read my post called "Can Cavapoo be left alone?"

Wrapping up

You’ll now be aware that any do may suffer from separation anxiety, know what signs to watch out for, and what you can do to prevent or moderate your pup’s distress.

With training and a healthy dose of patience, you can help your puppy conquer his fear of being left alone.

Just be consistent and leave him plenty of chew togs to keep him bust while you’re gone.

Read the latest Cavapoo posts here:

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