In the UK, interest in ‘velcro dogs’ – a term used to describe dogs that follow their owners everywhere, seeking constant companionship – has surged, with TikTok now hosting over 64 million videos on the topic, highlighting growing awareness of these highly affectionate yet often overly dependent pets.
This Pet Anxiety Month, Jimmy Bratley, Veterinary Practitioner at Adaptil, is advising owners to be mindful of how time apart can affect their dogs, as velcro dogs are particularly prone to separation anxiety and distress when left alone.
Jimmy explains that there are some particular breeds of dogs more prone to separation anxiety than others, including:
The causes of pet anxiety are nearly as numerous as those for human anxiety, and in many ways are quite similar. Fear of change, fear of being alone, and fear of the unknown are probably the three big categories for everyone.
Some common categories of anxiety in our pets are:
Change can come in the form of different routines or surroundings, meeting new people and being around fewer people.
It is important to note that any symptoms of anxiety or fear could have multiple causes. For example, barking, drooling or panting could signify many different things depending on the situation (e.g. excitement, hunger, exhaustion).
In dogs, common signs of anxiety or fear include:
“It’s no secret that dogs are highly social animals. They thrive on companionship with humans and often feel more confident when they’re around. The downside is that we can’t take them everywhere! Leaving our furry friends alone, even for just short periods of time, can often lead to separation anxiety in dogs.
Remember, when it comes to receiving the best advice for caring for your dog, it’s always best to seek professional advice from a vet. If your dog is struggling with being home alone, they’ll be able to provide specific guidance tailored to your furry friend’s unique needs.”
For more information on products that can help promote a more relaxing experience for dogs, check out the ADAPTIL range:
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