In the vast majority of cases, yes. Canine anxiety responds well to an appropriate behavior protocol, particularly once the causes are identified and addressed. Results depend on the type of problem, the dog's genetics, rejection by the mother caused by the stress of producing litter after litter (often the case for puppies from “puppy mills” and multi-breed “breeders”), illness, his training, the trust he has in his owner, and the time his owner gives him.
Not systematically. Some severe cases benefit from temporary medical support, prescribed by a veterinary behaviorist. It is never an end in itself: medication supports dog behaviorism, it does not replace it. It calms the symptoms, not the cause.
To quote Dr. Lisa Radosta, an American veterinarian respected worldwide: “I will never prescribe medication to resolve your dog's stress without in-depth dog behaviorism.” Dr. Kathy Murphy advocates the same. Let's work together for ethics and animal welfare.
Some breeds are indeed more predisposed to hyper-attachment and separation anxiety. But any dog, whatever his breed, can develop an anxiety problem depending on his history, his environment and the events he has been through.
Yes, to a large extent. Good puppy socialization between 3 and 14 weeks, a stable routine, meeting his needs for safety as well as his cognitive and scent-work needs, gradually introduced periods alone, and positive training are the best foundations for preventing anxiety problems in adulthood.
It depends on the severity of the problem, how long it has been going on, and the owners' involvement. Some dogs show significant progress within the first few weeks. Others require follow-up over several months. I give you a realistic estimate during the behavior assessment, with no commitment.
