Goldendoodle Separation Anxiety: Signs & Prevention Methods

You’ve done your research, fallen in love with the photos online, and finally taken the plunge and adopted a Goldendoodle. Congrats! But there’s one thing you should know about these furry friends. This breed often suffers from separation anxiety.

A Goldendoodle is a mixture of a Golden Retriever and a poodle: two highly affectionate dog breeds that often develop separation anxiety.

In this article, we’ll explore what Goldendoodle separation anxiety is, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to help your pup get through it.

What Is Separation Anxiety In Dogs?

One condition that affects both dogs and humans is anxiety. Separation anxiety occurs when an animal becomes anxious, upset, or stressed when separated from its owner or caretaker. 

Potential causes of separation anxiety in dogs include lack of socialization, previous traumatic experiences, genetics, changes in routine or environment, and underlying health problems.

Severe separation anxiety

You may want to seek pet medical advice from your local veterinarian if your Goldendoodle’s separation anxiety is more like severe separation anxiety. You don’t want your dog’s life to become one big nightmare of events just from being alone during the day, and chronic separation anxiety potentially leads to destructive behaviors.

Causes Of Separation Anxiety

Wondering where Goldendoodle separation anxiety comes from? It could be genetic, meaning they are prone to separation anxiety, but if not, here are three main reasons:

Lack of socialization

Lack of socialization with other dogs is among the most common causes of separation anxiety. Dogs who have never been away from their owner or haven’t had much exposure to other people and animals are more prone to developing separation anxiety.

You can remedy this by gradually acclimatizing your Goldendoodle to being away from you, starting with short periods and gradually increasing the duration. Over time your dog should become more accustomed to being alone and if you practice socializing, more comfortable around other dogs.

Previous traumatic experiences

These experiences include being rehomed, abandoned, or abused can also cause separation anxiety.

Dogs who have experienced these kinds of trauma are often very attached to their owner and fear being alone again. It’s essential to provide a safe and secure environment for these dogs and to help them build trust by giving plenty of love and attention.

Changes in routine or environment

These changes can also trigger separation anxiety. If you suddenly start working longer hours or go on extended trips, your Goldendoodle might become anxious about being alone for more extended periods.

Similarly, changes in the home environment, such as a new baby or dog, can also lead to separation anxiety.

Indoor dogs suddenly being left outside is another example of a change in the environment; although some dogs experience acute separation anxiety when left in the house, and resort to destructive behaviors to self-soothe.

How Common Is Dog Separation Anxiety?

Based on recent research, 63% of dog owners have dogs with anxious behavior.

Half of those respondents said that loud noises are the primary cause.

51% of owners surveyed said their pets are intimidated by fireworks, and 84% of these pet owners have seen signs of separation anxiety in their dogs.

Rover, the world’s largest network of pet sitters and dog walkers, recently conducted an online survey of 1,000 US-based dog owners to find out more about their concerns. About 45% of Rover survey respondents reported that they are desperate for new ways to combat their dog’s anxiety.

So, as you can see by the statistics, separation anxiety in dogs is common, and most dog owners want to combat it.

Why Do Goldendoodles Have Anxiety?

Groodles can have anxiety for a number of reasons, but the common form is separation anxiety, which means they become anxious when they are away from their owner.

This can be caused by several things, including being alone for long periods, being in a new environment, or being in an environment with a lot of noise or activity.

How Long Can Goldendoodles Be Left Alone?

Goldendoodles are considered companion animals, so they do not like being alone. If you have to leave your Goldendoodle home alone, it’s important to know how long they can handle being alone.

Goldendoodles can generally be alone for around 5 hours at a time. However, this depends on the individual dog and its personality traits. Some Goldendoodles may only be able to handle being alone for two hours, while others may be okay with being alone for twelve hours. At Barks in the Park, we suggest you get to know what your dog can and cannot tolerate, and ensure you make arrangements for care if you have to leave them for longer than usual. 

It’s always best to keep on the side of caution when leaving your Goldendoodle home alone. If possible, have someone check in on them during the day or take them to doggy daycare. This will help keep their separation anxiety at bay and allow them to get the socialization and exercise they need.

Goldendoodle Separation Anxiety Signs

One of the most challenging things about being a dog owner is not knowing when your animal is sick or in pain. Unfortunately, our furry friends can’t tell us directly what’s wrong, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of common health problems. This can manifest itself in several ways, including:

• Excessive barking
• Howling
• Crying
• Pacing
• Destructive behavior
• Whining
• Chewing
• Digging
• Scratching
• Urinating or defecating in the house

5 Tips & Tricks For Goldendoodle Separation Anxiety

If your Goldendoodle is experiencing separation anxiety, there are several ways to address it. Here are five tips and tricks for dealing with Goldendoodle separation anxiety:

1. Start with short separations

 If you’re going to be gone for several hours, start by leaving your dog for shorter periods, such as ten minutes. Slowly increase the time you’re away from your dog so they can get used to being alone. This could teach your new puppy how to deal with alone time and potentially not develop separation anxiety at all.

2. Create a safe space

When you’re gone, create a safe space for your dog where they can go to relax. This could be a crate or a designated area in your home, and make sure the space is comfortable and familiar to your dog. Having a refuge that is familiar and secure to your Goldendoodle can minimize anxiety.

3. Exercise before you leave

 A tired dog is a relaxed dog. Take your dog for a long walk or play games with them before you leave so they’ll be tired when you’re gone. Physical health and mental health are key to calming Goldendoodle separation anxiety.

4. Leave them something to do

 Dogs get bored just like we do. Leave your dog with some toys or puzzles to keep them occupied while you’re gone. Many dogs enjoy this form of stimulation.

5. Don’t make a big deal out of leaving

If you get upset when you leave your dog, they’ll pick up on that, increasing their anxiety. Be calm and positive when you say goodbye, and your dog will be more likely to stay calm. Also, make the goodbyes quick so you don’t stress your dog out. 

Doggy Daycare For Goldendoodles

Separation anxiety in Goldendoodles can lead to destructive behaviors. Doggy daycare can be an excellent solution for Goldendoodles with separation anxiety. Daycare provides a safe and stimulating environment for dogs to socialize and exercise, and it can also help them to learn how to cope with being away from their owners so it’s a win-win formula. 

Goldendoodles are social creatures and love being around people. They are also very active dogs, so need plenty of exercise. Doggy daycare can provide both of these things, which is why it’s a popular option for Goldendoodles.

Doggy daycare can be expensive, so it’s wise to do your research before you commit to sending your Goldendoodle to one. Make sure you visit the daycare in person and meet the staff to ask about their experience with Goldendoodles and what kind of exercise and socialization they offer.

If you’re looking for a less expensive option, many dog walking services offer group walks for Goldendoodles. Group walks can be a great way to get your Goldendoodle out and about while also saving money.

As with any care, do your research before entrusting your beloved Goldendoodle to someone else. Doggy daycare can be a great solution for Goldendoodles, but only if it’s the right fit for your dog.

Goldendoodle Adults vs. Puppies

The answer to “will my pup get separation anxiety?” depends on the dog’s age. Goldendoodle puppies are more likely to experience separation anxiety than adults because puppies aren’t used to being alone.

On the other hand, adult Goldendoodles typically don’t suffer from separation anxiety because they are used to being away from their guardians for periods. Practice makes perfect. Talk to your licensed veterinarian about treatment options or advice if you think your Goldendoodle puppy may suffer from separation anxiety.

Helpful Products For Goldendoodles With Anxiety

If your Goldendoodle suffers from anxiety when on their own, there are some helpful products you could look into purchasing to help minimize stress and to prevent severe anxiety and destructive behaviors.

1. A dog crate or bed with a built-in crate can help your dog feel safe and secure when you’re away from home.
2. You might also want to try a puzzle toy filled with treats, which will keep your dog busy and distracted while you’re gone.
3. Calming treatments help calm dogs down while you’re away.
4. An interactive toy with a camera is a great way you can keep an eye on your dog when
5. A lick mat can also prevent bad behavior.
6. Snuggle toys for comfort.
7. Calming music to help relax your pup.
8. A snuffle mat to provide mental stimulation and physical stimulation.

Spend time with your Goldendoodle to find out which one of these products they enjoy, as some dogs are picky about what they will play with. Toys are not for every dog, and that is where calming treatments and exercise might benefit your pets more.

The list of products is too expensive, but you want to try them all. Ask family members for Christmas presents for your Goldendoodle. How can anyone say no to this beautiful breed?

Conclusion

Goldendoodles can suffer from separation anxiety if they are not adequately trained. However, you can overcome this issue with a little patience and effort. Pet owners must start by teaching their dogs to stay in their crate or designated area for short periods and gradually increase the amount of time they are alone.

Make sure to provide them with plenty of chew toys and such to keep them occupied and give positive reinforcement. With some consistency and attention, your Goldendoodle will soon be able to stay calm even when you’re away. This site does not constitute pet medical advice, so see a licensed veterinarian if the problem persists.

Golden advice? Make alone time fun.

FAQs

What’s the biggest sign my Goldendoodle has separation anxiety?

There’s a whole host of behavioural problems which will become apparent if your pup is suffering from being left alone for extended periods. Any change in behaviour could signify the potential of anxiety, including barking and peeing where they shouldn’t.

Do Goldendoodles get separation anxiety from their parents when they leave the litter?

Pups are very likely to experience anxiety when speated from their mum and the rest of their litter for the first time. That’s why it’s crucial to have a carefully thought-out plan in place to make your pup’s first days in their new home as relaxed and happy as possible.

How do you train a Goldendoodle to be alone?

Start by putting them in a room for just a few minutes at a time and gradually increase the amount of time they’re left alone. Be sure to give them plenty of toys and bones to keep them occupied during this time.

Next, start leaving the house for short periods of time while your dog is in their room. Again, gradually increase the amount of time you’re gone until they’re comfortable being alone for an extended period of time.