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Incidence of behaviors used for diagnosis of separation anxiety in control dogs with vari- ous behavior problems and dogs with separation anxiety
Source publication
To determine potential risk factors and behaviors associated with separation anxiety and develop a practical index to help in the diagnosis of separation anxiety in dogs.
Case-control study.
200 dogs with separation anxiety and 200 control dogs with other behavior problems.
Medical records were reviewed for signalment, history of behavior problems,...
Contexts in source publication
Context 1
... behaviors-The most common com- plaint (71.7%) in dogs with separation anxiety was destruction in the home (Table 1). Excessive vocaliza- tion was reported in 61.2% of dogs, and inappropriate elimination was reported in 28.1%. ...Context 2
... behaviors associated with separation anxi- ety-Dogs with separation anxiety had other behaviors more commonly than control dogs did (P < 0.001; Table 1). Dogs with separation anxiety were 3 times more likely to follow their owner excessively, com- pared with control dogs (OR, 2.936), and almost 4 times more likely to have excited greeting behavior of duration > 2 to 3 minutes (OR, 3.76). ...Similar publications
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Citations
... The selection of neotenic physical traits has likely been accompanied by the selection of neotenous behaviors, such as attachment and behavioral dependency [47]. For this reason, brachycephalic breeds could be more prone to attachment and separation anxiety-related disorders [55][56][57]. Comparing the different brachycephalic breeds involved in this study, pugs showed higher scores than other breeds for excitability, separation-related behaviors, and attachment/attention-seeking. This may be linked to the extremely exaggerated brachycephalic morphology typical of this breed. ...
Brachycephalic dogs remain highly popular despite the well-documented health problems associated with their conformation. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in the bonding between humans and dogs, behavioral characteristics, awareness of clinical breed-related ailments, and purchasing intentions among Italian brachycephalic dog owners (BDOs) and non-brachycephalic dog owners (NBDOs). A questionnaire, including the DORS and C-BARQ scales, was administered to 320 BDOs and 408 NBDOs. Despite the occurrence of breed-related disorders, 81% of BDOs rated their dog’s health status as good to excellent. Most BDOs were aware of the prevalence of these disorders in the broader brachycephalic dog population. Character and appearance were the main motivations for choosing these breeds. Owners’ satisfaction with specific aspects of ownership, such as veterinary costs and behavior, generally met expectations. Mean scores of perceived emotional closeness (PEC) and dog–owner interaction (DOI) were significantly higher among BDOs compared to NBDOs, while the perceived cost (PC) mean score was higher among NBDOs. The C-BARQ scores for trainability, excitability, and separation-related behaviors were significantly higher in BDOs than in NBDOs. Despite the growing awareness of health issues, the popularity of brachycephalic breeds persists. Scientific evidence may support a revision of brachycephalic breed standards, prioritizing animal welfare while preserving desirable aesthetic traits, promoting more ethical breeding.
... While this was also expected by some adopters in our study, this was not always the case; some noted that they felt that their pet's separation-related behaviours became worse, or did not improve as their dog remained in the home. The occurrence of separation-related behaviours can put dogs at risk for re-relinquishment (Hawes et al. 2020), and some evidence suggests that dogs acquired from shelter and rescue organisations may be more likely to develop separation-related behaviour problems (Flannigan & Dodman 2001). Being able to identify what changes in separation-related behaviours can generally be expected, and what is indicative of adopters needing additional support, as well as being able to connect them with appropriate resources may be important for supporting adopters faced with these issues. ...
The adjustment period-wherein adopted animals transition to their new home-is a critical time for animal welfare and owner satisfaction, yet literature varies in estimates of how long this period lasts in dogs. This study sought to better characterise the adjustment period in relation to owner experience and canine welfare and clarify its duration as perceived by owners. We used a qualitative approach to examine owner perceptions of duration and their experience of the adjustment period. Twenty-seven interviews were conducted and analysed using thematic content analysis. Six themes were described: adjustment period duration; behavioural indicators during adjustment; behaviours indicative of adjustment; factors influencing adjustment; owner change in routine; and adjustment concerns. Over half of participants perceived the adjustment period to last longer than four months. Behaviours used by owners to assess dog adjustment included: moderation of behavioural extremes (e.g. lethargy and restlessness); play; tail wagging; greeting; and learning their routine. Owners reported that prior experiences and medical needs impacted the adjustment duration, that they adjusted aspects of their lifestyle, and raised concerns about being the right fit for their dog. Future research should incorporate a longer time-frame to better understand how and when dogs adjust to a home, and as there is variation in dog behaviour during adjustment, it must also account for individual differences. As we develop a better understanding of how to characterise this period, adopters can be better prepared for the initial months of dog ownership, and interventions can be individualised to improve owner experience and dog welfare.
... although this was not a problem when they went on holiday (P<0.05) or took part in social and cultural life (P<0.05). According to Christian et al. (2018), having a dog affects the organization of time and the problem arises when the owners go away for a long time (Flannigan and Dodman, 2001). However, the increase in the number of dog-friendly holiday resorts and pet hotels or a tendency to go away on holiday less often may partially alleviate these problems (Lee and Lai, 2021). ...
The aim of the study was to determine whether dog keeping affected the physical and mental condition of dog owners in Poland. Data from 715 surveys were analysed. The questionnaire contained questions on the different aspects of dog ownership and certain characteristics of the respondents (such as sex, residence and age). The distribution of answers to each question was given on a scale of one to five. The survey showed that the owners gained certain benefits (mainly emotional ones) and experienced some losses (usually associated with the animal’s passing) stemming from dog ownership. Knowledge of these types of costs and benefits can improve future owners’ awareness and help to prevent homelessness in dogs.
... Several dog characteristics have been found to be associated with SRBs, but without entirely consistent findings. For example, previous research has suggested that mixed breed dogs are more likely to display SRBs than pure breed dogs (McCrave 1991;Flannigan & Dodman 2001) or that specific breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels (Storengen et al. 2014) or Golden Retrievers (van Rooy et al. 2018), may be more likely to express specific SRBs than other breeds. However, such variations may be due to methodological differences such as case definitions (owner-reported separation anxiety vs diagnosis of separation anxiety at a veterinary clinic), or differing breed compositions of the sample populations (Sherman & Mills 2008), leading to sampling bias which may have influenced findings. ...
... Similarly, previous work has suggested that male dogs are significantly more likely to exhibit SRBs than female dogs McGreevy & Masters 2008), but this finding is by no means universal, with some finding no association between the sex of the dog and SRBs (Flannigan & Dodman 2001;Mendl et al. 2010b;Palestrini et al. 2010). Neutered dogs have been found to be more likely to show SRBs than intact dogs (Flannigan & Dodman 2001;McGreevy & Masters 2008). ...
... Similarly, previous work has suggested that male dogs are significantly more likely to exhibit SRBs than female dogs McGreevy & Masters 2008), but this finding is by no means universal, with some finding no association between the sex of the dog and SRBs (Flannigan & Dodman 2001;Mendl et al. 2010b;Palestrini et al. 2010). Neutered dogs have been found to be more likely to show SRBs than intact dogs (Flannigan & Dodman 2001;McGreevy & Masters 2008). Neutering might affect males and females differently, however, as a questionnaire-based study reported that neutered male dogs were more likely to show SRBs than intact male dogs, while neutered female dogs had lower SRB scores than intact female dogs (van Rooy et al. 2018). ...
Separation-related behaviours (SRBs) in dogs ( Canis familiaris ) often indicate poor welfare. Understanding SRB risk factors can aid prevention strategies. We investigated whether early-life experiences and dog-owner interactions affect SRB development. Using a longitudinal study, we conducted exploratory analyses of associations between potential risk factors and SRB occurrence in six month old puppies (n = 145). Dogs were less likely to develop SRBs if owners reported that, at ≤ 16 weeks old, puppies were restricted to crates/rooms overnight and had ≥ 9 h of sleep per night. Puppies with poor house-training at ≤ 16 weeks were more likely to show SRBs, as were those trained using dog treats or novel kibble versus other rewards. Puppies whose owners used more punishment/aversive techniques when responding to ‘bad’ behaviour had increased odds of SRBs at six months versus other puppies. Puppies whose owners reported ‘fussing’ over their dogs at six months in response to ‘bad’ behaviour upon their return, versus those whose owners responded in other ways, were six times more likely to display SRBs. Other factors, including dog breed, sex and source, showed no significant association with SRB occurrence. Thus, SRB development might be prevented by enabling sleep for ≥ 9 h in early life, providing enclosed space overnight, refraining from aversive training of puppies generally, and avoiding fussing over puppies in response to unwanted behaviour following separation. These recommendations derive from correlational longitudinal study results, so analysis of interventional data is required for confirmation regarding effective prevention strategies.
... Neuters of both sexes had significantly more fear or anxiety and also showed more escaping or running away. Increased separation anxiety in neuters is confirmed by some studies [77][78][79][80]. Neutered dogs are sometimes three times more likely to suffer from separation anxiety than intact dogs. ...
Simple Summary
Neutering is one of the most common procedures for dogs worldwide. While motivations for neutering vary, this procedure is often chosen with the hope of addressing undesirable behaviours in male dogs. In our study, 230 mixed-breed dogs (115 neutered and 115 intact) were examined. The dogs were categorised as “small”, “medium”, “large”, and “giant”. An online questionnaire was used, which asked about certain behavioural characteristics on the one hand and personality on the other. The results showed that neutered dogs appeared more stressed and aggressive than intact dogs. In addition, neutered small, medium, and large dogs were more stressed than giant dogs. Neutered dogs were also less social, trainable, emotionally calm and extroverted than intact dogs. This all suggests that neutering should be questioned and decided on an individual basis, as hormonal changes can have a considerable influence on dog behaviour.
Abstract
This study investigates the behavioural differences between neutered and intact dogs. A total of 230 questionnaires of neutered (n = 115) and intact (n = 115) mixed-breed male dogs were collected. Small, medium, large, and giant dogs were analysed to investigate a possible influence of body size. The results showed neuters were significantly more stressed than intacts (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.001). In terms of stress by influences (such as separation anxiety and anxiety at car rides), neutered small, medium, and large dogs were more stressed than giant dogs (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.05). Neuters were also found to be more aggressive in general (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.04) and more aggressive on the walk (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.02). In addition, personality questionnaires revealed significant differences in all characteristics. Neuters were less emotionally calm (multiple ordinal regression, p = 0.03), less trainable and less sociable (each multiple ordinal regression, p < 0.001). They also scored lower on extraversion (multiple ordinal regression, p = 0.04). These findings highlight the importance of further research into the behavioural effects of neutering dogs, as well as the need for evidence-based guidelines for neutering practices.
... BMC Veterinary Research (2024) 20:238 Several studies have shown that neutered dogs are more excited and fearful than intact ones [7-10, 16, 34]. A review of medical files and online surveys found that neutered dogs are more likely to have separation anxiety and fear of storms than intact dogs [76]. Additionally, in an experimental study of 38 dogs divided into three groups (1st. ...
Neutering dogs is a widespread method and is carried out for various behavioural and husbandry reasons. This study’s main objective is to investigate the behavioural correlations between neutering and the breed of male dogs. In order to possibly find breed-dependent differences in the behaviour of intact and castrated dogs, a differentiation between two clades - the “Huskies“(chow chow, shar pei, akita/shiba inu, alaskan malamute, siberian/alaskan husky) and the “Bulldogs” (german boxer, english/french bulldog, old english mastiff, boston terrier, english bull terrier, staffordshire bull terrier, american staffordshire terrier), based on Parker et al. [1], was made.
Using an online questionnaire,, 31 neutered and 37 intact male dogs from the clade “Huskies“ and 30 neutered and 38 intact male dogs from the clade “Bulldogs”, participated in the study (N = 136).The survey included detailed questions on the dogs’ personality and any associated issues as well as a behavioural anamnesis. Further questions relating to four of the “big five” personality dimensions based on the “Budapest questionnaire” by Turcsán et al. from 2011 [2] were also added.
The results show, that neutered males from both breed clades more frequently displayed aggression toward humans than intact males (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.002). When it came to aggression towards other dogs, it was the “Huskies” that differed significantly from the “Bulldogs“(multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.04) with being more aggressive. There were also significant differences in stress-related behaviour depending on castration status and breed (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001; Cramer’s V = 0.33) and only the castration status had an impact on the significance (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001). The analysis also revealed significance for stress-indicating behaviour with dependence on neutering status (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001) and showed that stress as well as uncertainty are significantly more common in neutered dogs depending on breed and neutering status (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001; Cramer’s V = 0.42), in that only neutered “Bulldogs“ were stressed, but more “Huskies“ overall.
According to the Budapest questionnaire data, the “Bulldog” clade had considerably greater extraversion scores overall (ordinal regression, p < 0.001) than the “Huskies“.
Our findings highlight the risks and potential negative effects of neutering. Gonadectomy in no way substitutes for the dog receiving the necessary socialization, training, or bonding. Although in some circumstances it might have a favourable impact on the dog’s behaviour, it should not be seen as a panacea for unwanted behaviour. Given that not all behaviours are influenced by sex hormones, every castration decision must be weighed up individually.
... Human attachment styles also impact animal behavior [24][25][26]. Increasing avoidant attachment, for example, has been associated with a greater prevalence of separation-related distress among dogs [25] which may be particularly relevant for shelter dogs as some evidence suggests they may be at greater risk of exhibiting separation anxiety [27,28]. Public interest in foster caregiving spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic, with reports of increased applications during the lock-down period [29,30]. ...
Foster care programs at animal shelters have emerged as an important tool for promoting animal welfare and supporting shelter life-saving efforts. Preliminary evidence suggests that foster caregiving may also be health-promoting for humans. The goals of this study were to investigate the experiences of foster caregivers at animal shelters based on measures of positive and negative affect, quality of life, and grief, and to describe human-animal attachment among foster populations. Between March 2022 and 2023, 131 foster caregivers from five shelters in the United States completed three online surveys before, during and after providing foster care to a shelter animal. Positive affect decreased significantly from baseline to post-foster (F = 5.71, p<0.01), particularly among dog caregivers (F = 6.17, p<0.01). Negative affect remained unchanged (F = 0.47, p = 0.63). Foster caregivers perceived their foster animal provided companionship, affection and emotional support, although dog foster caregivers reported significantly higher emotional (U = 313.50, p<0.01) and social/physical quality of life (t = 4.42, p<0.01) than cat foster caregivers. Caregivers reported low mean avoidant and anxious attachment, suggesting they were able to develop secure bonds with their foster animals. Retention of fosters was also strong, with 86% of caregivers reporting they were likely to provide foster care in the future. Our findings suggest that fostering at animal shelters may serve as a One Health intervention to offer companionship, affection and emotional support to human caregivers while promoting animal welfare. However, these benefits did not translate to improvements in caregiver mental wellbeing, so caution should be applied when considering foster caregiving as a potential mental health promotion tool.
... Among these, separation/generalised anxiety, noise phobias and fear-related aggression are most commonly diagnosed. Fear-/anxiety related behaviours (FARB) are characterised by a multitude of clinical signs including trembling, persistent vocalising, urinating, defaecating, salivation, pacing, continuous panting, hiding, persistent submissive grin, destructiveness and freezing in place (Flannigan and Dodman, 2001;Ballamwar et al., 2008;Crowell-Davis, 2009). Due to the complexity of the various expressions of canine fears, phobias and anxieties they are referred to here as FARB, to simplify their understanding in the intended context, which is an assessment of FARB in canine epilepsy. ...
... In addition to all these relations to separation behavior, there are other circumstances that have shown that they are positively related to the occurrence of separation problems [8,11,14,[17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27]. These are specified in more detail in the Methods section. ...
... In addition, behaviors during separation that, according to studies, can indicate separation problems were part of the questionnaire [9,[14][15][16][17]21,34,35]. The presence and frequency of the following behaviors during separation were asked about: howling, whining, barking, growling, salivation, urination, defecation, destruction, restlessness, shaking, excitement, yawning, lip licking and escape behavior. ...
... The study was conducted in Australia, which may account for the inconsistency. However, there are some studies where the opposite was the case [14,45,46]. Pongracz et al. [11] reported that more mixed breeds whined, but purebred and mixed breeds barked sooner, thus suggesting that whining may be a better indicator of separation problems. ...
Simple Summary
Separation problems in dogs are common and can manifest in symptoms such as restlessness, destruction, or vocalization. This study examines how separation behavior differs between dogs with and without separation problems and the possible risk factors. An online questionnaire with 940 participants was performed. After two groups were formed, depending on whether the holders stated that the dogs showed typical symptoms during separation, the groups were examined for differences. Furthermore, a separation test with videotaping and cortisol sampling of six dogs used to being separated but without separation problems was carried out. It was found that separation problems were primarily characterized by physical activity and vocalization. Dogs with separation-related problems needed more time to relax after separation. Dogs that were greeted after separation were less likely to have separation problems than dogs that were less calm and more pessimistic, excited and persistent. During the test it was found that dogs without separation problems were mostly inactive. Understanding these differences may help to diagnose separation-related problems and modify or even avoid risk factors to improve animal welfare.
Abstract
This study examined how separation behavior differs between dogs with and without separation-related problem behavior (SRB) and the possible risk factors. The study consisted of an online survey with 940 dog holders, which, in addition to demographic facts, also includes personality, emotional disposition and the attachment by the holder. Furthermore, a separation test was carried out with six non-SRB dogs over a maximum of 6 h, in which behavior and cortisol were determined. The questionnaire revealed that SRB dogs differed significantly from non-SRB dogs regarding the following factors: symptoms with at least a medium effect size such as restlessness, excitement, whining, howling, lip licking, barking and salivation, time to relax after separation, pessimism, persistence, excitability, calmness, separation frequency, greeting of holder and type of greeting. There were several other differences, but with weak effect sizes. The test showed that non-SRB dogs were mostly inactive during separation (lying resting and lying alert). Vocalization was almost non-existent. Behavior and cortisol did not change significantly over the different time periods. The data demonstrated typical symptoms and possible risk factors, some of which may be avoided or changed to improve animal welfare.
... Numerous studies have investigated risk factors associated with canine behavior problems. They have found that factors such as the dog's breed, size, age, sex, and neuter status (Jagoe and Serpell, 1996;Storengen and Lingaas, 2015;Col et al., 2016;Dinwoodie et al., 2019;Hakanen et al., 2020;Mikkola et al., 2021) and the owner's gender, age, and household composition (Flannigan and Dodman, 2001;Bennett and Rohlf, 2007;Řezáč et al., 2011) may influence the risk of developing undesirable dog behavior. Although these factors can be relevant to decisions about how to prevent behavior problems from occurring in the first place, they are often difficult to act upon once the problem is established. ...
