Separation Anxiety occurs in dogs when they display distress or behavior problems when separated from their owners. Because dogs are social animals and evolved to follow their pack leader, they can easily form an attachment to their owner. When this attachment is trusting and submissive, the attachment is a good, healthy bond. However, when this attachment becomes overly dependent on the presence of their owner, problems occur in the form of anxiety when separated. In fact, this attachment to their owners give these types of dogs the label "owner addicts" Because pugs are such loyal to their owners, separation anxiety is a problem in this breed of dog.

Symptoms of separation anxiety typically manifest within 30 minutes of the separation from their owner. Problem behaviors can include the following:

• Urination and defecation in the home,

• Aggressive attempts to escape to try to reunite with their owner which can include digging and scratching at windows and doors

• Pacing or obsessively following their owner when they are about to leave

• Self harm, which can include excessive chewing or licking

• Excessive barking, wining, or howling

Causes of Separation Anxiety

While the exact causes of separation anxiety are not known, it is generally thought that separating a puppy from its litter too early could cause anxiety later in its life. Also, a traumatic event, such as a new home or a death of a family member, can trigger separation anxiety. Even seemingly small changes in routine can cause anxiety in a pug. Finally, the dog could have an underlying medical condition that is manifesting itself as anxiety. You should visit your dog's veterinarian if their behavior changes suddenly.

How to Cure Separation Anxiety

Once you have identified the signs and cause of separation anxiety in your pet, you can then begin to prevent it. The first thing to remember is the goal is to have a calm, submissive pug. A dog that is in an excited state or has a lot of energy will be more difficult to help. So the first way to help your dog is to make sure they have plenty of exercise so they can burn off any excess energy and nervousness. A long walk prior to you leaving them alone can help greatly. Also, be calm when you are about to leave home, and when you return do so quietly, avoiding any hyperactive greetings. If your home is extremely busy in the mornings, move your pug to a quite place 30 minutes before leaving so he can calm down before you leave.

Another way to help your pug be calm is to train your pet to be alone for increasing amounts of time. To begin with, leave your dog alone for short periods of time, no more than 30 minutes. As he gets accustomed to being alone, gradually increase the time he is alone. Eventually, your pug's anxiety will decrease as he becomes more comfortable being away from you.

Until your pug's separation anxiety is solved, you may want to arrange for a dog sitter to visit your dog throughout the day. Another option would be to take your pet for day boarding (dog daycare). Finally, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe medication to lessen the symptoms of anxiety.