Dog privation syndrome is a serious condition that can lead to serious depression in a dog. Here's everything you need to know about this condition. Pound Disease
Dog Privation Syndrome is most common in dogs who were raised in pounds, which is why the syndrome is nicknamed "Pound Disease." While it is most common in these environments, other dogs are susceptible to dog privation syndrome in unusual circumstances.
Why the Condition Occurs
Dog Privation Syndrome is seen almost exclusively in puppies. It is caused by a significant lack of stimuli to which a dog is exposed to as a youngster. Familiar surroundings for these dogs are kennels, concrete walls, and dim fluorescent lights. When they are introduced to an environment in which a typical dog would thrive, these dogs experience a certain level of shock. They become anxious and frightened by bright lights or loud sounds. These dogs don't have the ability to cope with unfamiliar people, animals, and situations.
Signs of Dog privation syndrome usually surfaces between four and six months of age. The initial fear and anxiety caused by the condition will eventually evolve into serious depression if it is not addressed.
Symptoms of Dog Privation Syndrome
- The dog refuses to leave the house, even for walks.
- The dog is scared of new things, people, and situations.
- The dog destroys household objects.
- The dog practices self-mutilation as a form of self-punishment.
What You Can Do
Further regression will likely occur if a frustrated owner tries to force a dog with this condition to behave properly in normal circumstances. The dog may even become hostile and defensive.
A major effort must be made in socializing a dog with privation syndrome. Training will take more patience than it would with a dog who was allowed to properly develop emotionally and mentally. The first step in the process is to establish a trusting relationship between the dog and the owner. Once this bond has been forged, the owner can move on to introducing the dog to other people and situations. If the dog has an owner he trusts by his side throughout the process, he will be more likely to adapt to the new circumstances.
It is important to show a great deal of affection and understanding to pups suffering from dog privation syndrome. With a solid effort from the owner, a dog with this condition can eventually live a normal and well-adjusted life.
