Shih Tzu Separation Anxiety
A Shih Tzu separation anxiety is because companion dogs not only want but also need to be with people, some get very distressed when their people go away, resulting in separation anxiety. Even though you may be flattered by your godlike status in your dog’s life, separation anxiety isn’t good for your Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzu Anxiety Symptoms
The stress can compromise Shih Tzu’s immune system and his quality of life, and he can even injure himself if he goes into a panic because of your absence. Following are the Shih Tzu anxiety symptoms He can also bark excessively, disturb neighbors, and damage property.
Of course, your Shih Tzu can live without you, at least for short periods of time. He should look to you for guidance and care, but you want him to have enough confidence and independence that he can hang out by himself once in awhile. Here are some things to do to help your pet deal with your absence in a healthy way:
What To Do About Separation Anxiety in Shih Tzu?
Train your Shih Tzu to spend some time alone in his crate every day. If at first he cries, speak reassuringly to him but not with emotion in your voice. Be calm. Leave the room frequently but not for long. When he sees you keep coming back, he’ll stop crying and relax. Keep at it and be patient, making a routine, which turns into a comfort for your shih tzu. Just don’t leave him in there for too long. For the purposes of teaching your Shih Tzu independence, 15 to 30 minutes at a time is plenty.
How Long Can You Leave a Shih Tzu Alone?
Don’t make a big deal about leaving or coming back. Tell your Shih Tzu that you’re leaving, but don’t act emotional about it. When you return, don’t greet her right away or make a big deal about that, either. Greet her lightly, “Hi Lola,” and then do something else. Dote on her later when she isn’t dealing with the stressful transition of your comings and goings.
If you put your Shih Tzu in his crate when you leave, put him in about ten minutes before you leave. Don’t let him out until a few minutes after you get back. Open the mail, put away your coat, check your messages, and then let the dog out. This process eases him into the transition.
Pretend to leave frequently throughout the day. Practice not making a big deal about it, but go out the door, walk around the yard for a few minutes, and then come back in. Go back out, get in the car, drive around the block, and then come back. Do these activities several times daily, leaving for a bit longer each time.
Can a Shih Tzu be Left Alone For Long Time?
Absolutely Not! You should never leave you shih tzu alone. If you have to leave your dog for more than a few hours, hire a pet sitter or take your dog to a doggy daycare center. Pet sitters spend time visiting and walking dogs whose owners have to work all day, and your dog gets some social interaction during that long stretch of time when you’re away. Doggy daycare centers are a great experience for dogs that need help overcoming separation issues.
Shih Tzu separation anxiety can also be a pathological condition requiring medication and more serious professional intervention when it interferes with your Shih Tzu’s life and well-being.
If you still can’t manage shih tzu separation anxiety issues by yourself, consult a professional. Feel free to share your experience of handling shih tzu separation anxiety issues.
