All About Separation Anxiety in English Bulldogs

With the world slowly starting to re-open, more of us are venturing out of our homes for the first time in a year. This often means, however, that we’ll be leaving our newly-adopted English bulldog at home alone. For many English bulldogs, a few hours home alone are no big deal. But some—especially new puppies who are not used to their owners leaving for extended periods—will have a hard time adjusting. They may even develop separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety can be stressful for both English bulldogs and their owners. Thankfully, there are ways to combat it. Learn more below:

What is separation anxiety?

Our pups never like to be left alone, but when they become overly agitated, anxious, or upset, this is separation anxiety. Any breed of dog can suffer from separation anxiety, but English bulldogs can be particularly susceptible as they’ve been bred to be companion animals.

Below are some of the common signs that your English bulldog is suffering from separation anxiety:

• Urinating and/or defecating
• Barking and howling
• Chewing, digging, and other forms of destruction
• Escaping
• Pacing
• Abnormal drooling

Can Your English Bulldog Overcome Separation Anxiety?

YES! Just like all forms of anxiety, your English bulldog can overcome their separation anxiety. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian. Depending on the severity, they may advise various treatments including training and medication. Here are just a few things you can do in the meantime:

Start small

Don’t leave your English bulldog home alone all day—this is the equivalent of throwing them in the deep end and expecting them to swim. Instead, start small. Leave for a few minutes, come back, and see how your pup did. If they did well, extend the amount of time you leave.

Keep them entertained

Dogs that are bored tend to get more anxious. While you’re away, give them something to keep them busy—like a chew toy or a KONG dog toy.

Crate training

While you shouldn’t keep your English bulldog confined to a crate all day, it can help ease their anxiety if you’re only gone for a little while. Crates are comfortable, safe spaces for our animals, and they can help quell their anxiety.

At the end of the day, only you and your veterinarian can determine the best course of action when dealing with your English bulldog’s separation anxiety. Nevertheless, there is a path forward. For more advice on how to care for your English bulldog, contact Bulldog Angels today!