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Yorkie Separation Anxiety: Treatments, Causes & More
Did you know that over 40% of small dog breeds, like Yorkies, exhibit signs of separation anxiety at some point in their lives? Yorkie separation anxiety is a common condition that can affect the quality of life in these dogs.
Good knowers and proud owners of Yorkshire Terriers are aware of the complex personality this breed is representing. A contrast of cuteness packages with a fragile label on it, and protective, defending Terriers can be both of a challenge and a funny enjoyment for Yorkie’s owners. Although they can be seen as spoiled and demanding, Yorkies are actually just complexed and they need proper care and discipline.
Sometimes it is inescapable to leave your dog alone at home, especially because it is recommended for Yorkies to spend their time inside, in a warm and safe place (although they need plenty of outdoor activity). Regarding all that has been said above, Yorkies can sometimes develop separation anxiety. Keep reading, and find out what it is, what are the symptoms, causes, and how to deal with it.
The Causes of Yorkie Separation Anxiety
A pet is a part of your family. You should not consider it just an animal. Pets don’t have a level of self-awareness as humans do, but they are living beings with emotions and enough self-awareness to sense the lack of your presence. Yorkshire Terriers get so attached to their owners, that any separation causes remarkable amounts of stress and anxiety in them. Of course, your dog will get used to being separated from you for a short time, but sometimes it gets too long and too much for the Yorkies to handle. Separation anxiety doesn’t just represent sadness.
It means a variety of responses and changes in their behavior and can permanently affect them. Although yorkie separation anxiety is considered a condition that is developing when you and your loved one are far away from each other, each Yorkie has its own personality, so some of them may respond with this condition even when you leave them to go to the supermarket. Some Yorkies develop separation anxiety while they are still puppies, as expected, while others can develop it in their older age when they become more sensitive and super used to you.
What Are the Most Common Triggers for Separation Anxiety in Yorkies?
Certain events or circumstances are more likely to trigger separation anxiety in Yorkies. Here are the top triggers:
- Sudden Absence of a Caregiver: Whether it’s a family vacation, long workdays, or even short errands, Yorkies may become anxious when their primary caregiver is no longer in sight. Some people tend to leave their dogs in dog boarding houses instead of taking them on vacations. Unfortunately, they’re not aware of the fact that such situations can be very stressful for their pets. Our dogs are social beings who easily get attached to their owners.
- Changes in Daily Routine: Deviations from established schedules, such as feeding, playtime, or bedtime, can unsettle Yorkies and contribute to their anxiety. So, in case you live a busy life and you very often change your dog’s feeding schedule and going on strolls, then you can expect your Yorkie to suffer from separation anxiety.
- Being Left in a New Environment:
- Staying in a new house or apartment.
- Being boarded in a kennel or left with unfamiliar caretakers. Just imagine you leave your child with someone unknown. In those moments, your Yorkie feels like you’ve betrayed him and left him forever.
- Previous Negative Experiences: Dogs who’ve been abandoned or left alone for long periods in the past may associate solitude with stress or fear.
- Sudden Loss of a Family Member: Whether it’s a human or another pet, the absence of a constant companion can deeply affect a Yorkie. If your dog used to spend a lot of time with someone from your family and now that family member is gone, he can start showing signs of separation anxiety.
- Lack of Mental or Physical Stimulation: A bored Yorkie left alone without toys or activities is more likely to feel anxious. Toys, treats, and interactive puzzle games leave calming effect on your dog’s mind. they distract their attention, so they’ll be less prone to destroying home items.
- Clingy Habits: Dogs accustomed to excessive attention and cuddling may find it overwhelming to cope when suddenly left alone.
How to Recognize Yorkie Separation Anxiety
When you leave, your dog can not be sure you will come back. It doesn’t know how many days have passed, and how many days will past until you come back. There are symptoms showing this difficult condition. First of all, Yorkies start barking uncontrollably and frequently. It is their way to call you, to hope for your response and your voice. They can’t ask anyone where you are and why you have left, so they are alarming that something is wrong. This barking can become aggressive. Yorkies with separation anxiety become destructive and disruptive.
They can literally turn into a dog that you won’t recognize. No matter what level of discipline you have established with your pup, Yorkshire Terriers can behave really bad and different. They go from good boys to really bad boys. You can expect them to ruin your furniture, relieve themselves all over your home, and not accept cuddles. Even when you come back, these symptoms can last, because of the Yorkie’s excitement and confusion that you are there again, or maybe because they feel angry with you. Some Yorkies try to escape. Maybe it is a sign of rebel, or they want to find you since you won’t find them.
Other than aggression and the lack of control, Yorkie separation anxiety sometimes just don’t react to anything. They don’t want to go outside, they refuse food and water. All they do is lay and sleep. Some Yorkies bark intensively, while others remain quiet for a long time. They are just super worried and sad, and that is the only emotion that is overwhelming them. Panic and pacing are common to this condition, so if your dog has been seen walking in an imagined path forwards and backward, it is a sign of separation anxiety. Yorkies start licking stuff excessively, eating and licking their feces. Any other unusual behavior can be developed, so if noticed when you are away from your Yorkie, it probably means the separation anxiety has found its way to this tender creature.
Yorkie Separation Anxiety: What to Do?
Going away on a trip for a few days usually means leaving your dog with somebody else, if you don’t have the possibility to take it with you. But if you leave Yorkie alone for a few hours in the house, you can make a safe place where it will play, and so there won’t be the opportunity for Yorkie to seek for you through the house. Yorkie will still be worried, but the pacing and walking in circles through the house are making separation anxiety even worse. Getting to know your dog can also help. Some dogs can get even more scared if they don’t have free space to walk, some can be calmed by a window view or even their favorite TV show! On the other hand, this can make it harder for some Yorkies. So have your dog’s preferences and habits in mind.
Leave your dog with its favorite toy. There are some toys, for example the ones meant for chewing, which can reduce the level of stress and distract Yorkie’s attention. Get the Yorkie distracted with a toy and a calm place before you leave. That is good preparation and a “base” for what is coming. Still, you shouldn’t be playing together at that moment. Yorkie needs to learn how to be alone and how to entertain itself.
There are some opinions that dog chewing and destroying our shoes is a consequence of us putting the shoes on when we are leaving. Myth or not, dogs still can learn some patterns we do before we leave. Try doing some of these activities throughout the day even if you are not leaving. Yorkie will still be upset, but when it sees that it is not a big deal, maybe it will stop reacting to you putting the shoes on or clinking with your keys. When you leave, your dog will still be upset and confused, but there won’t be a negative preparation for your walkout with sadness and emotions accumulating.
Top 5 Calming Toys for Yorkies to Tackle Separation Anxiety
If you have a Yorkie you know they don’t like to be left alone. Yorkie separation anxiety can turn into barking, chewing and a full on meltdown when you walk out the door. But don’t worry—there’s a secret to calm their nerves: toys! Not just any toys but the right ones to keep their little brains and paws busy. Here are the top 5 calming toys to reduce separation anxiety in Yorkies and make alone time way less stressful—for you too!
1. Dog Carrot Snuffle Mat
Ever seen a Yorkie go full Sherlock Holmes? This snuffle mat will do just that! Hide treats in the little carrot shaped pockets and let your pup sniff, dig and explore to find them. It’s like a treasure hunt that burns energy and keeps their brain busy. For dogs with separation anxiety this is a lifesaver—it distracts them from realizing you’re gone and gives them something fun to focus on. Plus sniffing has been shown to calm dogs naturally.
2. Gum Relief Yorkie Toy
Does your Yorkie chew when they’re stressed? This gum relief toy is for dogs with teething pain or just a general need to chew on something. Made from soft textured material it massages their gums and keeps their jaws busy. For Yorkies with separation anxiety chewing can be calming and this toy is a boredom buster and stress reliever. Say goodbye to chewed up furniture and hello to a happy pup!
3. Slow Feeder Yorkie Toy
This toy combines mealtime with playtime! You can fill it with kibble or treats and your Yorkie has to work to get the goodies out. It slows down their eating while keeping their brain busy—perfect for when you’re not home. Separation anxiety in Yorkies often comes from boredom so giving them a task like this can be a lifesaver. Bonus: It’s great for portion control too!
4. Interactive Yorkie Pal Toy
Get to know your new BFF here!
Let’s face it Yorkies don’t just want a toy they want a friend. This interactive toy is soft, cuddly and makes little noises to get their attention. It’s like having a mini playmate to keep them company when you’re out. For dogs with Yorkie separation anxiety having a comforting “buddy” nearby can make a big difference. It’s the next best thing to you being there!
5. Crazy Rubber Yorkie Ball
If your Yorkie has boundless energy this crazy rubber ball is the toy for them. It bounces all over the place making it super fun to chase and pounce. Even if you’re not home your pup can bat it around themselves. It’s tough enough for the most aggressive chewers and the wacky movement will keep them engaged. For Yorkies with separation anxiety, a toy like this helps channel their energy into something productive and fun.
Why These Toys Work for Yorkie Separation Anxiety?
Each of these toys is designed to target the specific challenges of separation anxiety in Yorkies. They stimulate your pup mentally and physically, keeping their focus on fun instead of your absence. Whether it’s sniffing out treats, chewing for stress relief, or playing with a buddy, these toys are must-haves for any Yorkie owner looking to make life easier for their furry friend.
Separation Anxiety Training for Small Dogs: Desensitizing Your Pup to Being Alone
Separation anxiety can be tough, especially for small dogs who love to be by your side 24/7. But don’t worry—there’s a way to help your pup feel more relaxed when you leave the house. Desensitization is a gradual training method that teaches your dog to stay calm and confident during your absence. Here’s how to build a routine that works for you and your furry friend!
Step-by-Step Desensitization
1. Start with Short Absences
- Step out the door and come back in. Then step out the door and come back in again. Just a few seconds.
- Gradually increase the time you’re out of the room, then minutes, then hours.
- Keep it low key when you come and go so it’s not a big deal.
2. Create a Calm Exit Routine
- Don’t make a big deal before you leave. No emotional goodbyes like “I’ll miss you so much!” or excessive petting.
- Instead, be neutral and calm as you put on your shoes, grab your keys and head out the door. This tells your dog leaving is no big deal.
3. Use Positive Associations
- Give your dog a special toy or treat that they only get when you’re leaving. For example:
- A stuffed interactive toy with peanut butter or their favorite snacks.
- A snuffle mat or puzzle toy to keep their mind busy.
- This will help them associate your leaving with something good.
4. Gradual Desensitization Cues
- Dogs with separation anxiety pick up on cues that you’re leaving like grabbing keys or putting on a coat.
- Desensitize your dog to these triggers:
- Grab your keys but don’t leave the house.
- Put on your shoes and sit on the couch instead of heading out.
- Do this randomly until it no longer causes anxiety.
5. Build Independence While You’re Home
- Teach your dog it’s okay to be alone even when you’re in the house.
- Set up a cozy spot in a separate room with their favorite blanket or bed and have them relax there for short periods.
- Use the command “go to your place” to reinforce this.
6. Gradually Increase Time Away
- Once your dog is comfortable being alone for a few minutes, increase the time to 15, 30 and then 60 minutes.
- Monitor and adjust as needed.
What a Daily Desensitization Routine Might Look Like
Here’s a sample schedule for a small dog:
Morning
- Short walk or play session to get the energy out.
- Before you leave, give your dog a calming toy or treat and leave for 1-2 minutes.
- Come back in calmly, no big deal.
Midday
- Repeat the process, this time leaving for 5-10 minutes.
- Increase time away if your dog is doing well.
- Use positive reinforcement when you come back, like a treat or quiet praise.
Evening
- Practice separation cues (like grabbing keys) without leaving.
- Have your dog relax in their “safe space” while you’re in another room.
Night
- Let them settle in their bed instead of following you around the house.
- Calm down with a gentle cuddle or brushing.
READ ALSO: Yorkshire Terriers Care Guide For Newbies
Yorkie Separation Anxiety: Wrapping Up
If there is time, try rescheduling your day. You need to make a balance between leaving your dog completely on its own and spoiling it. Combine the reorganization of your day and Yorkie’s day. You both need to change your habits in order to feel good. It is a compromise. If you are at work the whole day, don’t go to the after-work drink, for example. That can wait until the evening, or weekend. You have a loved one in your home, you are a family, so this shouldn’t be a frustrating obligation for you.
Photo credit: @yorkiegirlchloe / @austin_the_yorkie_crew
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