If you have a European Doberman or are considering getting one, you may be aware of these dogs' undeniable bond with their owners. As a breed, we know Dobies for their unwavering loyalty to their human companions. However, this fierce devotion can lead to some behavior problems if not addressed correctly. Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral issues seen by the Doberman pinscher and other breeds who bond closely with their owners. But before we get into how to correct separation anxiety in your pup, let's talk about what causes it and what exactly separation anxiety looks like in dogs.

The European Doberman is a dog well-known for its high level of intelligence and trainability. We have used this breed as both a guard dog and police dog due to its strength and power and its ability to follow instructions and learn new skills quickly. We also know the European Doberman for its loyalty to its family and friends, which makes it an excellent watchdog but can also cause problems with separation anxiety if not properly trained by an experienced owner.

From this article, you will learn about the European Doberman pinscher and separation anxiety, treatments, and symptoms.

What is a European Doberman?

 

A European Doberman is a dog that comes from the Doberman pinscher breed. It is not a different breed but a variation of the same species with specific characteristics that enthusiasts of the breed prefer. The European Doberman (also known as the German Pinscher) was first bred in Germany by Louis Dobermann, a dog catcher and tax collector. He needed protection while working, so he created a breed that would be fierce yet loyal to its owner.

The European Doberman has since become a popular breed in Europe, although it's not as well known here in the United States. Most European Dobermans are born from imported dogs in America, but we have bred some from American dogs.

The European Doberman is a dog that comes from the Doberman breed. Its breed originated in Germany, but nowadays, it's famous worldwide as a police and military dog and a companion animal. The European breeding style emphasizes working and health, while many American breeders focus more on appearance.

Many enthusiasts believe you should get an American Doberman (or Euro/American mix) if you want a family pet because they're less aggressive with people than their European counterparts. However, if you want a dog for protection or sports competitions, the European Doberman is the way to go.

The most significant difference between the two breeds is their size. We bred the American Doberman to be larger than their European Doberman counterparts. However, it wasn't until much later that you recognized these differences—the original European Doberman and American dogs were very similar in size and stature. It wasn't until World War II that the soldiers who brought home their canine companions noticed that their new pets weren't as big as their old ones had been. A male European Doberman weighs about 60 pounds, while a female weighs around 25 pounds.

What is the Temperament of a European Doberman?

 

The European Doberman has the same temperament and health issues as any other Doberman. Still, they tend to be smaller than the American version, have fewer white markings on their coats, and have a square head and muzzle. In other words, Europeans prefer a smaller breed with less white on their coats and larger skulls and muzzles.

The temperament of a European Doberman depends on the owner. Some Dobermans are dominant, while others are docile and easy to train. Dobermans have a solid protective nature and are likely to bite or fight if they feel threatened. However, if properly socialized and trained, Dobermans are easy to train and will adapt quickly. Listed below are some of their characteristics.

European Dobermans are more athletic and alert than their American counterparts. The two types are quite different and can be difficult to distinguish unless you know what you're looking for. If you have an American Doberman, you'll need to consider the personality traits of each breed.

What is Stress in Dogs?

 

Due to stress, dogs can exhibit various behavioral symptoms, from more frequent urination to digestive upset. They can also have symptoms that resemble human depression, such as a lack of desire for human attention or aggression. Several stress causes include change of residence, separation from pack and abuse. Stress can also affect the immune system and lead to adaptive illnesses in dogs. Listed below are a few common signs of stress in dogs and how to spot them.

Behavioral changes may also signal stress. For example, your dog may display signs of anxiety, such as an erect face or ears pinned back. They may also have tucked tails or shifted their weight to their hind end. In addition, a stressed dog may hide behind you or another object, such as a sofa or table, or even close their eyes. If the stress is severe, your dog may even shut down completely.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies may also help, like calming sprays or Zen chews. They are effective at relieving tension in dogs. Just like humans, dogs do not choose to be stressed. As such, it is essential to identify a stress trigger to prevent it from happening again.

What is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

 

A dog's behavior may indicate the underlying cause of the problem. For example, your European Doberman may become destructive when you leave for work, or he may have trouble eliminating. Then, you come home to find him standing in the middle of the mess. That's separation anxiety. Your dog may also suffer from some medical condition, such as urinary tract obstruction, which can cause him to act out.

Understanding the breed's needs and requirements is essential before bringing your dog home.  Also, be sure to consider the financial commitment this dog will require. Doberman puppies are also more demanding than older dogs. The American Kennel Club offers free information on this breed.

The first sign of a dog suffering from separation anxiety is the tail wagging. If the tail is wagging, the dog is content. It may growl or snarl during playtime or place its paw on the shoulder of another dog. The breed also has an extensive alphabet of smells, making it a good candidate for training. You may need to train your dog to behave around children. Luckily, this type of dog requires minimal grooming.

In addition to this trait, Dobermans have a habit of crying when they feel left out. You can prevent this behavior by teaching your dog appropriate behaviors. To prevent the dog from becoming aggressive, it is essential to conduct proper handling skills and establish a strict discipline schedule.

Many dogs develop separation anxiety when they're unable to soothe themselves. Other causes may include physical illnesses and changes to their environment. Newly adopted dogs and those adopted from animal shelters can also develop separation anxiety. A new environment typically triggers the condition during the first few months. In addition, dogs can develop separation anxiety if left alone without an owner. For this reason, it is vital to get the proper treatment for your dog.

Signs a European Doberman Has Separation Anxiety

 

If your European Doberman is tearing up the living room, separation anxiety may be the problem. The behavior is not anger but rather a way of channeling his fear. As your pet gets used to being alone, you will be able to leave him during the day without worry. Once you recognize the signs, however, you must take action to stop the behavior. These signs may include excessive barking and crying.

Observing body language can be very helpful. The Doberman will look into your eyes when you speak, and it may also put a paw on your shoulder, growl, or snarl during playtime. The dog will also walk with its head held high. Dobermans are incredibly in tune with their emotions and body language. If you're living alone, a European Doberman may show signs of separation anxiety by holding its head high or even snarling.

Your Doberman pinscher may require diagnostic testing and sometimes blood testing to determine the severity of separation anxiety. Your dog may experience dry skin, hair loss, skin infections, liver disease, heart disease, or even gastric dilation. Stress and anxiety can severely affect their immune system, and early detection is essential. Early detection is key, and routine care is necessary to ensure your European Doberman is in prime condition.

If your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, it's essential to seek help. While separation anxiety is common, it's not always treatable. Your dog may get bored, but the symptoms signify actual stress. Other signs of a Doberman with separation anxiety include destructive chewing, potty accidents, and other behavioral problems. As a result of separation anxiety, your pet may destroy your furniture, carpets, and walls. If you leave him alone for long, he may become depressed and engage in destructive behavior.

Best Ways to Treat Separation Anxiety

 

When you have a European Doberman, it's essential to be aware of their tendency to experience separation anxiety, which is particularly difficult for European Dobermans (as opposed to American Dobermans). Leaving the dog alone for long periods or changing the dog's environment often causes this behavior. Luckily, there are some simple ways to help your dog through it.

First, it's essential to keep an eye on whether your dog exhibits signs of separation anxiety. These can be anything from barking and whining to chewing and digging. They typically show destructive characteristics like these when people leave their homes or are about to leave their homes. However, some dogs may also try to escape from their crate or yard when left alone.

There are several effective ways to treat separation anxiety in your European Doberman. The first thing you must do is to identify the underlying cause. Many pet owners mistakenly assume that separation anxiety is due to boredom or lack of exercise. While these causes are also valid, the most important thing to do is to prevent them. If you notice any signs, you should immediately start treatment. However, if the condition is severe, your dog might need assistance like the Calming Cuddle Bed, Zen Chews, or Calming Sprays. These natural products will help your dog be more calm and relaxed when you leave.

If you have determined that your dog has separation anxiety, try these helpful tips. First, keep your departures low-key. Don't give your dog lots of attention right before leaving. When you do, they may become even more anxious because they expect more affection once you've said goodbye. Give them a toy with a treat inside, so they'll stay occupied while you're gone. If they're crated while home alone, put them in there with a special treat.

To prevent the problem from getting worse, you can practice leaving and coming back to your dog for as little as five minutes. Then, gradually increase the time you leave the house while remaining calm and reassuring your dog. Eventually, your dog will get used to being left alone.

A European Doberman Needs Exercises

 

To overcome Doberman Pinschers' separation anxiety, owners must first give them the proper amount of daily exercise. This breed requires two hours of daily practice to remain mentally stimulated. For this reason, owners can also play with puzzle toys or hide and seek games with them. Agility classes or training sessions are also beneficial for the health of your Doberman. It's vital to give your dog a good amount of exercise to become calmer and more socialized.

In addition to being extremely intelligent and lovable, Doberman Pinschers also require many exercises to remain healthy. Their high-energy levels make them excellent candidates for long walks. You'll also want to give them lots of space to run around, as they love to play ball games and fetch. However, keep in mind that they're not known to run away if you're not home. So, they need a lot of exercises to prevent your pup from experiencing separation anxiety.

A European Doberman Needs a Leader

 

One of the first signs of European Doberman and separation anxiety is excessive whining, barking, or howling, especially when you leave them alone for long periods. Your dog will likely use this to communicate with you when you return. However, if you don't respond, your Dobie will engage in destructive chewing. Likewise, if you don't respond immediately, your Dobie could tear apart your walls, carpets, and doors.

If you notice your Doberman is becoming obnoxious or aggressive, an excellent way to handle it is to make frequent trips to the dog park and take it for a walk. Do not use shock collars or aggressive training methods if the problem persists. Instead, use reward-based methods of training. When your dog shows affection, reward it with treats.

A European Doberman Needs a Lot of Attention

 

If your European Doberman shows signs of separation anxiety, it may be time to learn more about this problem. The symptoms of this problem are usually present when you're not there and can include excessive barking, whining, and howling. They may also become destructive chewers, especially if they're not reacted to, destroying carpets, furniture, and even walls. In addition, they have powerful legs and will often use them to dig holes in walls or furniture.

One of the leading causes of this problem is pent-up energy. Dobermans require 60 minutes of daily exercise, and this pent-up energy increases the anxiety a Dobie may feel when you leave. This can increase your Doberman's fear of being left alone and increase the possibility of destruction. Thankfully, you can take steps to alleviate this problem before it becomes too late. 

They Have a High Energy Level

 

If you've had a Doberman for many years, you've probably noticed that they have a high energy level. They need lots of interaction with their owners and will become destructive if left alone for too long. Male Dobermans typically have an extended puppyhood and settle down around four years. A Doberman's separation anxiety may make it hard for them to leave you alone, but it's worth noting that male Dobermans generally start to calm down a little after getting used to having you.

The best solution to avoid this separation anxiety is to train your dog early. Early training will make him comfortable being left alone. Make sure to incorporate daily exercises and playtime into your routine. Make sure you're home for the majority of the day. If you're working from home, try to spend some time in the morning with him. This will help him develop confidence in people. Keep your Doberman active and distracted if you have young children at home.

They Need a Lot of Food

 

The best way to reduce your Doberman's anxiety is to provide a calming environment. A Thundershirt can be effective. The shirt applies gentle pressure to your dog's body to reduce stress. This is especially useful if you plan to take your dog traveling or to a vet's visit. Thundershirts are not a substitute for proper training. If your Doberman is exhibiting symptoms of separation anxiety, use the Thundershirt to help him relax.

Although Dobermans are highly intelligent, they require regular human interaction. If you leave them alone in a crate during the day, they may get impatient or hurt by chewing on ropes or strings. In severe cases, a Doberman may strangle itself or urinate in the house. Thankfully, these dogs are easy to train.