Is it Separation Anxiety or Just FOMO?
A common question among dog owners seeking separation anxiety training is how to distinguish between true separation anxiety and FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). They often wonder whether training is necessary if their dog is experiencing the latter.
Let’s dive into the two in greater detail.
Understanding Dog Separation Anxiety
Dog separation anxiety is a condition characterized by extreme distress when a dog is separated from its owner or left alone. It goes beyond mere dislike of solitude; it’s a panic disorder. This condition triggers intense emotional responses that can result in disruptive behaviors, such as excessive vocalization, and physical symptoms like drooling, pacing, or indoor accidents. Some dogs may even attempt to escape, risking self-harm in the process.
Common Signs of Dog Separation Anxiety
Recognizing the signs of separation anxiety is crucial for addressing the issue. Symptoms can vary but often include:
Destructive behaviors (chewing, scratching, digging)
Excessive barking or howling
Escape attempts to reach their owner
Pacing or restlessness
House soiling in an otherwise housetrained dog
Excessive drooling or panting
Understanding FOMO in Dogs
FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, refers to the anxiety stemming from the fear of missing enjoyable experiences that others are having. This feeling often arises from a strong desire to be included and a fear of exclusion.
Consider Buddy, a playful Labrador who loves accompanying his owner on errands and adventures. He’s used to being part of the action, going out with his owners nearly every time they leave the house. But on the rare occasion when Buddy is left home alone, he quickly senses that something is off.
As his owner prepares to leave, Buddy’s tail wags with anticipation. But instead of heading out with the leash, he’s instructed to stay. Confused, Buddy watches as the door closes, leaving him behind. His initial excitement morphs into disappointment as he paces and whines, gazing out the window in hopes of getting to tag along on the outing.
In subsequent departures, Buddy’s anxiety may intensify, especially if he is left behind now with any regularity. He might follow his owner to the door, paw at it, and bark. With each separation, his distress can escalate, leading to longer bouts of barking and even howling, turning into bona fide fear over time.
Whether your dog is struggling with separation anxiety or FOMO, the emotional distress they experience is the same. It's crucial to address these feelings rather than just letting your dog cry it out. With the right training approach, you can help your dog feel more comfortable when left alone. Visit our website to learn more about our separation anxiety training and how we can assist both you and your dog.
