How to Cope With Husky Separation Anxiety

Husky separation anxiety is the cause of most husky behavior problems. In turn, behavioral problems are the main reason Huskies end up in rescue shelters. This is very sad because in almost all cases separation anxiety can be prevented or cured.

Husky Separation anxiety can be both frustrating and heartbreaking if your husky howls with sadness when you’re not home. What can follow is very destructive behavior such as barking, assaulting, biting, jumping, chewing and running away. If your husky is proving to be a major nuisance with obedience issues, it is highly likely that he is suffering from separation anxiety.

Huskies are, by nature, very pack-oriented. Your husky sees you and your family members as her pack. If your husky is left alone, he can feel lost, scared, abandoned and isolated from the pack. Husky separation anxiety is often displayed as howling and destructive behavior. Your husky is in a bad mood and this is how these feelings come out. The good news is that by the time you finish reading this article, you will be armed with the knowledge to help your husky on the path to wellness.

What Causes Husky Separation Anxiety?

The root cause of separation anxiety is the difference in the nature of humans and pack dogs, such as the husky. Huskies are highly social and have a strong internal desire to live in a pack and interact in a pack. A wild dog would do absolutely anything in a pack. This includes eating, hunting, sleeping, and traveling.

Humans, on the other hand, due to our modern lifestyle, operate as individuals in society most of the time. While you’re at work, your dog is at home pining for the leader of his pack. It goes against every fiber of a husky to be away from the pack.

Five Husky Separation Anxiety Symptoms

1. When you’re getting ready to leave the house, your husky starts howling, whining, and demanding extra attention.

2. Catching your husky in the act of misbehaving as he leaves or arrives at your house is another indicator that your husky may have separation anxiety.

3. If your husky refuses to be physically apart from you when you are home, this may indicate a fear that you will leave.

4. Physical symptoms include, but are not limited to, whimpering, howling, crying, and shaking.

5. A fully house-trained husky begins to go to the bathroom in the house.

Basic Husky Separation Anxiety Solutions

Building Relationships – There is a fine line between building trust and creating an over-reliance on your husky. You need to develop a relationship where your husky is dependent on you without being so dependent that he can’t function when you’re not around. Be firm but fair with your husky and don’t smother him.

Basic Dog Obedience – By teaching your husky basic dog obedience training, you will be able to overcome many of the negative behaviors associated with separation anxiety. Basic commands as well as social interaction for your husky will help him overcome separation anxiety.

Separation Training – Your husky needs to know that you will be back when you go somewhere. The best way to do this is to go through a planned process of going out for a few minutes and then coming back. Put your husky in a room where he feels safe for this. Gradually increase the amount of time she is away. You will notice that if you do this over time, your husky will be much calmer. Be sure to praise your dog for waiting patiently. Medication is an absolute last resort if separation anxiety training is unsuccessful.

Crate Training – Crate training is a good way to prevent separation anxiety in a husky, especially when he is a puppy. Slowly introduce your husky to a room where he feels safe. Put out a favorite play toy and scented item to help get your husky comfortable. This is a precursor to box training.

Be a good owner: Give your husky all the essentials he needs before he leaves. This includes water, food, shelter, territory, and favorite toys.

Regular exercise – Your husky will be much more relaxed and content with regular exercise. Just like humans, Huskies who exercise regularly have reduced stress levels.

Patience: You must give your husky time to get used to the fact that you are not at home. This is even more relevant if your husky is a rescue dog. Your husky pet needs to feel safe in a pack and can’t help but feel anxious. There is absolutely no reason to put down a pet because it misses you so much. Be patient with your husky and you’ll both benefit from a great relationship.