Pitbull are a powerhouse of love and affection, but unlike some breeds they aren’t the most independent dogs.

Pitties love to cuddle and spend time with family, which we all do enjoy!

Unfortunately, this desire to be with people can eventually lead to them developing dreaded separation anxiety.

If your Pitbull has started to tear things up when you leave the house or they are having uncharacteristic accidents and behaviors, then it might be time to discuss separation anxiety with your vet.

These professionals will have some helpful advice, but if you’re just wanting a quick read on how you can help your nervous pittie, then keep scrolling to find out!

Why Do Pitbulls Have Separation Anxiety?

Not all pitbulls have separation anxiety, and not all other breeds are calm and free of issues.

It’s really about the individual dog, their personality and the environment.

Most of the time, the reason that a dog has separation anxiety is because they simply don’t understand why their owner has left and they believe they will never come back.

Sure, this thought process is irrational, but we’re talking about dogs here.

Separation Anxiety Symptoms In Pitbulls

Pitbulls are an intelligent and robust breed that truly enjoys human contact and affection.

Did you know that Pitbulls are derived from an older bully breed that was known as the “nanny dog”?

They were given that name because of how much they love to spend time with people, especially children.

Anxiety, especially from separation from a loved one, can manifest in several ways.

Most symptoms of anxiety are as follows:

  • Destructiveness (either to themselves, their kennel or owners belongings)
  • Hyperactivity, panting and restlessness
  • Excessive barking when home alone
  • Accidents: urine or poop
  • Excessive licking or drooling

Are Pitbulls Prone To Separation Anxiety?

All dogs have the inherent ability to develop anxiety, this is true of most living creatures.

Pitbulls specifically are high energy and love to be around people, this inherent nature makes them prone to separation anxiety.

Dogs that are not properly kennel trained or taught that their owners leaving is a natural occurrence, will often show signs of separation anxiety.

This is especially true of pitbulls that are left by themselves often without the ability to burn energy or stimulate their minds.

Remember, a bored dog is usually a naughty dog!

How You Can Help Your Pitbull With Separation Anxiety

Pitbulls love people and they are incredibly loyal.

This makes them a breed that can be susceptible to bouts of anxiety and depression if separated from their favorite people for too long.

To help your anxious pittie get through issues with separation, try doing the following recommended tips!

Use Mental Stimulation Like Games Or Puzzles

Many breeds of dog, including the pitbull, would benefit from games and puzzles while their owner is away.

However, it is important to only provide them with things they can’t accidentally destroy and ingest while unsupervised.

Puzzles and games will help to stimulate their minds, keeping them focused more on that instead of their concern about being alone will go a long way.

Crate Training Your Pitbull

Crate training is a crucial aspect of raising a dog, unless your dog is 100% capable of making good decisions while you're away and they are free roaming the home.

In the case of this article, that is certainly not what’s going on.

The kennel, or crate, while it may seem sad and lonely, is actually the safest place for your dog to be while you are not at home to supervise them.

Dogs that cannot be trusted to make good decisions while alone should be kept in a crate.

This ensures that they are not able to ingest something inappropriate, nor can they destroy the home or owners belongings.

Help Them Understand That Being Alone Is Okay

Teaching your pitbull that being alone isn’t the end of the world will truly make a big difference in the way they behave when you leave the house.

This process of getting them used to being home alone will take a lot of time and patience on the owners part, so remember this isn’t a quick training session.

The first thing to do is to leave them alone for short spurts of time, gradually increasing that time away as they grow more comfortable with the idea.

Rewarding them verbally and with treats when you come home and find that they have done well is also an important form of reinforcement.

Worst case scenario, you need to contact a board certified veterinary behaviorist to help you with your training.

In some cases, they will recommend getting with your veterinarian to discuss using anti-anxiety medications.

How To Deal With Pitbull Separation Anxiety?

Pitbulls are a loyal and sweet breed of dog that adores their family time, so it’s no surprise to think about how there are a lot of them that have separation anxiety.

If your pittie has started showing signs of anxiety when you leave the house, then it might be time to see how you can help curb the behavior before it gets out of hand.

Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian and discuss how you can help them overcome their separation anxiety today.

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