Shih Tzus have a unique way of expressing their emotions, and even though they can’t use words, they convey their feelings through actions—the famous canine language.
You know that sorrowful look your dog gives when you’re about to leave the house? That’s not for no reason. Shih Tzus does this for a simple reason: dogs miss their owners, and this is how they show that emotion.
But don’t worry, it doesn’t mean that dogs are capable of as complex emotions as humans.
In fact, according to research by neuroscientist Gregory Berns, when dogs are near someone they love, there is an increase in their oxytocin levels. This hormone is responsible for enhancing the well-being of animals and reducing issues like stress and anxiety. That’s why when the owner needs to be away for some reason, the dog misses the owner and the positive sensations they bring.
It’s important to know how to prevent your Shih Tzu from missing you too much when you’re gone. Feeling a bit of longing is normal, but it’s essential to be attentive so that it doesn’t significantly affect your four-legged friend’s well-being. Sometimes, when a Shih Tzu suffers from longing, there are clear signs that should be observed and addressed as soon as possible.
The most evident signs of a Shih Tzu experiencing this issue, known as separation anxiety, are excessive barking or howling when the owner leaves. In some cases, the Shih Tzu may also refuse to eat in the absence of their owner and may experience weight loss over time. It’s also important to watch for any injuries on the dog’s body, as some dogs may start harming themselves intentionally to get the owner’s attention.
Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate separation anxiety, and as a last resort, the owner can seek professional training techniques. But remember, don’t forget to take your furry friend to the vet, as separation anxiety can lead to health issues, and it’s essential to keep a close eye on their well-being.
Understanding Why Shih Tzus Suffer When They Change Owners
If the Shih Tzu is still a puppy, the likelihood of it suffering when changing owners is considerably reduced, as the animal is still in the process of adapting to the environment and the people around it. However, when it comes to an adult or older dog that has been with the owner for a considerable time, this process becomes much more complicated.
The fact is that dogs often form strong attachments to their families, and separation affects these animals deeply. So yes, dogs miss their owners when they are rehomed or when the owner passes away. Therefore, this process should be approached with great care to help the dog adapt to the change as smoothly as possible. Otherwise, it can cause significant trauma in the dog’s life.
How to Prevent Your Shih Tzu from Missing You So Much?
There’s no way around it: dogs miss their owners, but owners have to work and do other things outside the home, and it’s not always possible to take the dog with them.
So, what can you do to prevent your Shih Tzu from missing you during your absence? Well, there are some alternatives to help with this mission. The first is to invest in interactive toys. They can help your Shih Tzu stay engaged while you’re not at home and are an excellent way to stimulate their cognitive abilities.
Additionally, you can consider hiring a pet sitter to take care of your dog or a dog walker to take them for a walk. If these options are not feasible, you can leave a piece of clothing with your scent near your Shih Tzu to help them cope with the longing. You can also play background music to distract and alleviate the anxiety caused by your absence. If your Shih Tzu has the company of another pet, it becomes easier to deal with the times when they are alone at home.