Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Behavioral problems are one of the leading reasons for re-homing and euthanasia in dogs. It is estimated that between 40 – 87 % of dogs suffer from some sort of behavioural problem, making it an important animal welfare issue.

Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavior problems encountered in dogs after problems related to aggression. This thesis is aimed at examining the etiology behind separation anxiety related behavior in dogs based on existing literature as well as comparing and evaluating the efficiency on suggested treatment protocols.

Possible causes for this behavioral problem are many and they are discussed in previous articles. Several authors argue that the owner - dog attachment bond is of central importance in the appearance of separation related problems. However, the extent of how this truly affects the behavioural problem itself is unsure. Other possible factors predisposing dogs to develop separation anxiety are thought to be anything from genetic, environmental, owner behavior, to juvenile wolf behavior retained during the domestication process.

Research regarding possible treatment protocols for dog separation anxiety is scarce, and only a few possible options have been evaluated as to this date. These protocols are of three types; behavioral therapy, medication (in this paper Clomipramine and D.A.P. will be examined) and behavioral therapy combined with medication. In this paper these three types of treatments are investigated and evaluated and it is found that behavioral therapy and behavioral therapy in combination with D.A.P. seem to be the most efficient protocols for treatment.

Further research within this subject is vital in order to improve the welfare of dogs showing this type of behavior problem. Providing professionals within this field with efficient treatment protocols is of great importance in order to help prevent separation anxiety from appearing as well as providing methods of how to treat the problem in dogs already displaying separation anxiety.