Dealing With Bichon Frise Separation Anxiety
Because they are such sociable and affectionate dogs, the Bichon Frise tends to become too attached to their owners and/or their surroundings. Sudden separations from their owners, like when they are going on a vacation, or a move to a new home can lead to the development of Bichon Frise separation anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a form of anxiety that is experienced by a dog or puppy – in this case a Bichon Frise – caused by separation from the significant nurturing care and influence of their owner or familiar surroundings. Aside from being parted from their owners and changes to their environment, Bichon Frise’s separation anxiety can also be triggered by loud noises associated with the separation, such as bangs, booms, fireworks, or thunderstorms.
There are many ways by which Bichon Frises manifest separation anxiety. One way is by constantly following you wherever you go. If it loses sight of you even for just a few minutes, it becomes very restless, pacing around the house frantically and whining. Some Bichons display aggressive behaviors just to get your attention, such as growling, barking or even biting. In your absence, the dog exhibits destructive behaviors, like chewing or gnawing on furniture and urinating or defecating in every part of the home, including your bed.
Crate training can help alleviate separation anxiety if done when your Bichon is still a puppy. In your absence, the crate or sleeping area for the dog becomes a place of sanctuary. Some dog owners even go so far as to place an old T-shirt or personal item that has their scent on it inside the crate to soothe and relax their Bichon.
After crate training, encourage the development of independence in your Bichon puppy. This can be achieved by teaching your pet to lie down and sleep on a mat or dog basket away from you and/or other members of your family. Give them toys to play with while you are in another part of the house or away for a few hours.
If you are concerned that your puppy might take the toy and play with it in another part of the house, simply secure the toy to a fixed object like a post or a wall. A common advice given by pet owners is that the toy should be given 10 to 20 minutes before you leave the house. Not only will this distract your Bichon, but your puppy will also make a connection with your departure and a reward (namely the toy).
Never make departures or arrivals such a huge fanfare as this will only aggravate the anxieties that your dog is already experiencing.
Bichon Frise’s separation anxiety need not be a cause of frustration and resentment between the owner and the pet. Through adequate training and patience, you can help your dog to deal with its fears and anxieties.
