Snuggle Puppy is specially designed to help dogs with separation anxiety

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, they are not alone. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, it affects about one in every five canines.

Dogs with separation anxiety might present a variety of symptoms, from barking and howling to chewing and digging, going potty in the house or even escaping. While there is no conclusive evidence pointing to a cause, far more dogs adopted from shelters develop separation anxiety than those who live with one family from puppyhood.

While this can certainly be difficult for the humans in the house, it’s no fun for the pooch, either. In one research study, veterinary behaviorist Dr. Stefanie Schwartz compared separation anxiety in pets to phobic disorders and panic attacks in people.

A Stuffed Toy Might Help

A specially designed toy from Smart Pet Love called a Snuggle Puppy could help your dog deal with anxiety when you are away.

The adorable stuffed pup can be stuffed with a disposable heat pack and a pulsing heartbeat. When your own pup cuddles close, the toy simulates the security they would’ve felt when they nestled with their mom and litter mates.

The manufacturer recommends introducing the stuffed toy to your new puppy during crate training, monitoring your dog at first to make sure they learn not to chew on it. So, this toy might not be a good fit for an older pooch, but it could be just what your new little furbaby needs to grow up feeling safe and secure.

You can get your paws on a Snuggle Puppy from Amazon or at most popular pet retailers starting at about $40.

You can also find a complete new puppy starter kit from the company, which includes a Snuggle Puppy plus three heat packs, a toy, one snuggly blanket and a teething aid. The complete package costs $69.99 on Amazon and is meant to ease a puppy’s transition to their new “furever” home.

What solutions have you found for your dog’s separation anxiety?