My Experience With Desensitization for Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Here's my story about desensitization for separation anxiety in dogs - I'm sharing this because I wish someone had told me earlier.

Watching Rocky go through this was heartbreaking. question:

A trainer prescribed “desensitization” for my dog’s separation anxiety. What does that mean?

Answer:

For serious stress-related issues such as separation anxiety and aggressive behavior, consulting a reputable trainer or behaviorist is strongly recommended.

In those cases, desensitization is usually the preferred method of treatment..

Essentially, desensitization means very gradually exposing your dog to the thing that triggers their discomfort.

The process usually involves counter-conditioning — the pairing of positive reinforcement with the trigger stimulus.

Here’s an example of a situation where desensitization would be appropriate.

Your dog barks and lunges (anxious behavior) whenever the neighbor kids whiz by on their bicycles (trigger).

Here’s what desensitization might look like in this scenario: Place a small bicycle at the far end of your yard.

If your dog can tolerate the sight of it (that is, no lunging or barking), praise them effusively and shower them with treats.

I learned this the hard way, but at least Rocky is okay now.

gradually move the bike closer to your own yard, treating and praising at each new interval.

The example above is a very broad description of a very gradual and specific process.

Each step may take several sessions, several days, or several weeks — or it may need to be broken down into even smaller steps in order for your dog to comfortably tolerate what’s being asked of them.

If you're going through something similar, know that you're not alone. And definitely talk to your vet - they know way more than I do!