Are Pitbulls Prone to Separation Anxiety? Understanding Your Pibble’s Emotional Needs

Have you ever come home to find your furniture chewed up, mysterious puddles on the floor, or your neighbors complaining about non-stop barking? If you’re a pitbull owner, you might be dealing with separation anxiety – and unfortunately, our beloved pibbles can be particularly susceptible to this condition.

As someone who’s been through the pitbull separation anxiety struggle (and survived!), I want to share what I’ve learned about why these lovable blockheads get so stressed when we leave and – more importantly – how to help them feel secure

The Pitbull-Anxiety Connection: Why Our Pibbles Struggle

Yes, pitbulls are definitely prone to separation anxiety. In fact, separation anxiety and pitbulls are two things that often go hand-in-hand. But why?

The Loyal Nature of Pitbulls

Pitbulls form incredibly strong bonds with their humans. These dogs are emotional and take loyalty to a fault. They become friends for life, but in return, they want to spend lots of time with you. This deep attachment is beautiful but can become problematic when they’re left alone.

Shelter Trauma and Past Experiences

Many pitbulls in homes today come from rescue situations. Dog experts hypothesize that past trauma connected to abandonment is a major cause of anxiety in these dogs. Considering that about 75% of municipal shelters euthanize pitbulls immediately upon intake, it’s no surprise that these dogs might develop fear responses related to being left alone.

Pack Animal Instincts

Like all dogs, pitbulls are pack animals by nature Being separated from their “pack” (that’s you!) can trigger genuine distress This isn’t just being “needy” – it’s hardwired into their DNA to want company.

Signs Your Pitbull Has Separation Anxiety

Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward helping your pup. Here are some telltale signs that your pitbull might be suffering from separation anxiety:

• Destructive behavior – Chewing furniture, carpet, walls, doors, clothing, shoes, etc.
• Inappropriate elimination – Peeing or pooping in the house despite being housebroken
• Excessive vocalization – Barking, howling, whining, or crying when left alone
• Physical symptoms – Excessive panting, drooling, salivating
• Escape attempts – Trying to break out of crates, pens, or rooms
• Pacing or circling – Especially common in dogs left in small spaces
• Digging – Either at doors/windows or in the yard

What’s interesting is that pitbulls don’t always display anxiety the same way as other dogs. Their methods of showing displeasure can sometimes come off as aggressive to humans, which can unfortunately reinforce negative stereotypes about the breed.

7 Effective Ways to Help Your Pitbull’s Separation Anxiety

After dealing with my own pibble’s extreme anxiety (and trying just about everything under the sun), I’ve found these approaches to be the most helpful:

1. Progressive Desensitization

This was a game-changer for us. The concept is simple: gradually get your dog used to you leaving. Here’s how:

1. Start by doing your “leaving routine” (grabbing keys, putting on a coat) but don’t actually leave.
2. Progress to walking to the door, then coming back immediately.
3. Step outside for just 5 seconds, then return without making a big deal.
4. Very gradually increase the time you’re gone.

I legit did this hundreds of times over a period of weeks. It was tedious, but eventually, my dog realized that me leaving wasn’t the end of the world and I ALWAYS came back.

2. Physical and Mental Stimulation

The saying “a tired dog is a happy dog” exists for a reason! Make sure your pitbull gets plenty of exercise BEFORE you leave them alone. A good 30-minute walk or play session can work wonders.

Also, try puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys to keep their mind occupied while you’re gone. My pitbull loves his Kong stuffed with frozen peanut butter – it keeps him busy for ages!

3. Create a Safe Space

Some pitbulls feel more secure in a smaller, cozy space when alone. This could be a crate (if properly crate-trained) or a quiet room with familiar bedding and toys.

For dogs with sound anxiety (like fear of thunderstorms or fireworks), playing calming music or white noise can help mask scary outside sounds.

4. Try a Compression Wrap

Products like the Thundershirt apply gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s torso, similar to swaddling a baby. Many owners report this has a calming effect on their anxious pitbulls.

The gentle pressure is thought to release calming hormones – kinda like a constant hug for your pup! About 80% of dogs show improvement with these products, according to manufacturer claims.

5. Consider Natural Calming Supplements

There are several natural options that may help reduce your pitbull’s anxiety:

• Hemp oil – Many pet owners find that hemp oil helps take the edge off their dog’s anxiety. Look for products with 0% THC and a certificate of analysis.
• Calming herbs – Supplements containing chamomile, passion flower, ginger root, or valerian root can have natural calming effects.
• L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine – These amino acids may increase “feel-good” serotonin in your dog’s body.
• Melatonin – In appropriate doses, this can help regulate your pitbull’s sleep and reduce anxiety.

Always consult with your vet before starting any supplements, especially if your dog is on other medications.

6. Use Your Scent and Voice as Comfort

This trick helped my pitbull tremendously! Dogs find our scent incredibly reassuring. Try:

• Leaving a recently worn (unwashed) t-shirt near your dog’s bed
• Recording your voice on a loop to play while you’re gone
• Using a “comfort cuddler” toy that you can stuff with your clothing

I discovered this by accident when my dog stayed calm outside my bedroom door during a phone call. She could smell and hear me, which was enough to keep her content even though she couldn’t see me.

7. Consider Adding Another Pet

Since pitbulls are pack animals, some find comfort in having another furry friend around. Of course, this is a major commitment and should only be considered if you’re ready for another pet – not just as an anxiety solution.

Make sure any new animal is compatible with your pitbull’s temperament. Sometimes, a calm, older dog can be a great influence on an anxious pitbull.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your pitbull’s anxiety is severe (especially if they’re hurting themselves or destroying your home), don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Options include:

• Veterinary behaviorists – These specialists can create a comprehensive treatment plan
• Certified dog trainers – Look for those with experience in anxiety issues
• Your regular veterinarian – In some cases, prescription medications may be needed alongside behavior modification

For severe cases, especially those involving self-mutilation, medical intervention might be necessary. There’s no shame in needing extra help – the goal is a happy, healthy pup!

Preventing Separation Anxiety in Pitbulls

If you’re just bringing home a new pitbull, you can take steps to prevent separation anxiety from developing:

• Start with short absences right from the beginning
• Create positive associations with your departures (like giving a special treat)
• Establish a consistent routine so your dog knows what to expect
• Make sure they have plenty of physical and mental stimulation
• Teach independence by not always responding to attention-seeking behaviors

My Personal Experience with Pitbull Separation Anxiety

When I first adopted my pitbull mix, Benny, I had no idea what I was in for. The first time I left him alone, he chewed through my bedroom door. Not just scratched it – went THROUGH it. I was shocked and, honestly, a little scared.

After two years of trial and error (and one destroyed couch, multiple shoes, and some very annoyed neighbors), we finally got to a place where he can handle being alone for reasonable periods. The combination of desensitization training, hemp oil to take the edge off, puzzle toys, and playing my recorded voice worked wonders for us.

It wasn’t an overnight fix – it took patience and consistency. Some days were better than others. But seeing him now, calmly lounging on his bed when I return home instead of shaking with anxiety, makes all the effort worth it.

Final Thoughts

Pitbulls are emotional, sensitive, and deeply loyal dogs who form intense bonds with their humans. While this makes them amazing companions, it can also predispose them to separation anxiety.

The good news is that most cases of separation anxiety can be managed or even completely resolved with the right approach. It takes patience, consistency, and understanding, but helping your pitbull feel secure when alone is one of the greatest gifts you can give them.

Remember that every dog is unique – what works for one pitbull might not work for another. Be willing to try different approaches, and don’t get discouraged if progress is slow. The bond you’ll strengthen through this process will be worth every effort.

Has your pitbull experienced separation anxiety? What techniques have worked best for you? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!

To train a dog out of separation anxiety, create a calm departure and arrival routine by keeping your goodbyes and hellos low-key. Provide a special, high-value treat only when you leave to create a positive association with being alone. Practice short, controlled departures, gradually increasing the time you are away, and use a camera to monitor your dog’s behavior.

Yes, pit bulls are often described as “velcro dogs” because they are known for being very loyal, affectionate, and often clingy with their owners, thriving on close human companionship and forming strong bonds with their families. This clinginess can manifest as following their owners from room to room, wanting constant physical contact, and even developing separation anxiety when left alone.

While separation anxiety can affect any dog, certain breeds are more prone to it due to their inherent traits, with herding breeds like the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, and German Shepherd, along with devoted companion breeds like the Labrador Retriever, often showing higher susceptibility.