7 Sure-Fire Ways to Calm Your Boxer’s Anxiety

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Anxiety tends to plague Boxers, especially when they are left alone for long periods of time. Not all, but some Boxers suffer from separation anxiety if their owner is not immediately in their vicinity. However, a few options are at your disposal to treat this issue and help your dog to learn and relax. Different methods work for different dogs, so you may need to try several to get a grasp on their anxious behavior. 

Are Boxers Prone To Separation Anxiety?

Boxers are known for their affectionate and social nature, often referred to as “people dogs” because of their love for human companionship. Boxers thrive on attention and interaction from their owners and can quickly become anxious or distressed when left alone or separated from them. Their loyalty leads to their attachment to their people and potential separation anxiety. 

When left alone, Boxers may feel abandoned, and their anxiety may escalate, leading to a range of behaviors such as excessive whining, barking, destructive chewing, pacing, or even trying to escape. These behaviors are their way of expressing their distress and anxiety, and they may cause damage to the home or harm to themselves. Do not worry yet; there are ways to treat separation anxiety by helping them cope and feel comfortable. 

How To Help A Boxer With Separation Anxiety?

If you have a Boxer who is struggling with separation anxiety, try these methods to help them feel comfortable in their world even when you are not around:

– Leave them alone for short periods of time, gradually increasing the amount of time they are left alone over time. This will help them to build confidence and learn that being alone is not a bad thing.

– Create a safe and comfortable space for your Boxer where they can go to relax when you’re not around, such as in a crate or a dog bed. Make sure they have access to their favorite toys, water, and a comfortable bed.

– Before leaving your Boxer alone, practice leaving and returning several times a day. This will help your Boxer get used to your comings and goings and reduce their anxiety when you leave.

– Leave your Boxer with toys and treats to keep them entertained while you’re away. Puzzle toys, sniff mats, and chew toys can provide hours of entertainment and help reduce anxiety.

– In severe cases of separation anxiety, medication may be necessary to help calm your Boxer. Talk to your vet about options for medication or natural supplements that can help reduce anxiety.

Are Boxers Okay To Be Left Alone?

Boxers, like any other breed of dog, can be left alone for short periods. However, keep in mind that Boxers are social animals and love human interaction and attention. Being left alone for extended periods can cause them to feel anxious, bored, and distressed.

If you have a Boxer, it’s essential to ensure they have enough mental and physical stimulation when you are not around. Leave them with plenty of toys and treats to keep them entertained. Although, if you need to be away for longer periods, it’s important to have someone check in on them or consider taking them to a dog daycare.

Why Is My Boxer So Clingy?

Your pup stays loyal to you, and sometimes they cling because they need to be dwelling in the same space as it feels safer. Often, clingy behavior is a symptom of a lack of attention, separation anxiety, fear, health concerns, or simply an annoying personality trait. Always rule out health concerns with your dog’s veterinarian.

If your Boxer is displaying clingy behavior, give them extra love instead of discipline or annoyance, as those will simply exacerbate the issue and cause more heartache for you. However, it’s also important to establish boundaries and train them to be comfortable with being alone. Gradually increasing the amount of time they are left alone and providing them with toys and distractions can help reduce clingy behavior and build their confidence.

Why Are Boxers So Anxious?

Boxers are not necessarily more anxious than other breeds, but some of them take anxiety too far, at least from a human perspective. Often the anxiety has a trigger such as a lack of socialization, trauma, negative experiences, or a genetic predisposition. If you’re concerned about your Boxer’s anxiety, consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer. With proper training, socialization, and care, many Boxers with anxiety can lead happy and healthy lives.

Does Boxers Separation Anxiety Ever Go Away?

Separation anxiety in Boxers can be a challenging behavior to overcome, but with the right training and support, you can take the severity down a notch or three. The key is to gradually build up their tolerance to separation by leaving them alone for short periods at first and gradually increasing the time they spend alone. Create a safe and comfortable environment for your Boxer when they’re alone. This can include providing them with a comfortable bed, toys, and treats to keep them occupied while you’re away.

Professional help from a veterinarian or dog trainer may be necessary, especially for dogs who have been abandoned or abused in the past. They can help identify the root cause of the anxiety and create a customized training plan to help your Boxer overcome their fears. Remember to be patient and understanding with your pup. 

What Triggers Separation Anxiety In Boxers?

Boxers are social and affectionate dogs that crave human interaction, and when they are left alone for extended periods of time, they can experience separation anxiety. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what triggers separation anxiety in Boxers, several factors may contribute to this condition.

One of the main causes of separation anxiety in the breed centers on a lack of socialization. Since Boxers are social animals, they need to be exposed to different people, animals, and situations from a young age to help them develop confidence and social skills. If they do not receive adequate socialization, they may become anxious when separated from their owners.

Again, separation anxiety can stem from their love of their human. You are part of their pact, and in their opinion, they need to keep you safe. In order to keep you safe, you need to be near them at all times, or they cannot do their job. If we could just talk to them, it would be so much easier! However, you can get a doggy camera if you need to be gone for long periods. 

Trauma or negative experiences can also lead to separation anxiety in Boxers. If a Boxer has been abandoned or surrendered to a shelter, they may develop a fear of being left alone. Lack of exercise or stimulation can also contribute to anxiety in Boxers, as they are active dogs that need plenty of physical exercises and mental stimulation. Finally, genetic predisposition can trigger their anxiety too. 

Do Boxers Get Attached To One Person?

Yes, Boxers are known for their strong attachment to their owners and often become very attached to one person in particular. They are loyal and, as such, make you the priority in their life. No one will get in the way of their task of keeping you safe, protected, and loved by them! 

While Boxers may have a favorite person, they are generally friendly and affectionate with everyone in their family and guests who frequent your home. They enjoy being around people and are known for their goofy, playful personalities. Overall, Boxers make great family pets and form strong bonds with their owners. With proper training and socialization, they can learn to be comfortable around multiple people and lead happy, healthy lives.