Vet names the common dog behaviour to look out for that's a 'cry for help'

An expert has warned that a common dog behaviour often misunderstood as a sign of affection can instead signal your pet is experiencing anxiety. Dogs love their owners more than anything in the world, and the pets often want to stay close and follow them wherever they go.

Such behaviour is normal but if it becomes excessive - with your dog panicking whenever you leave and not giving you any space - it could be a sign of a "pathological dependence", Conxita Martínez a vet at AniCura Canis i Felis Veterinary Hospital warns. Speaking to Spanish language magazine Hola!, she said dogs have established a special bond with humans because of their social instincts.

Like humans, they desire a sense of belonging, and also feel compelled to know what people in the home are doing and where they are.

This is why dogs often follow owners closely. Ones that are simply seeking companionship learn to be left alone from time to time, and can be left unattended in a separate room without getting upset, she explained.

But some dogs have separation anxiety, a behavioural disorder "characterised by anxiety and distress when a dog is away from their pet parent", as per PetMD.

Ms Martínez says this manifests as as "an abnormal and exaggerated reaction of intense fear, helplessness and anxiety".

Various factors, like the age and breed of the dog, can play into your furry friend is at risk of developing separation anxiety. But the biggest is their early experiences as a pup.

Warning signs include excessive barking, scratching or breaking things, or urinating or defecating indoors, she says.

This can happen before and during the owner's absence, dogs affected by it will often welcome back owners in an exaggerated way on their return, and will be desperate for attention.

She emphasised that dogs should not be punished for acting up in these situations, as the dog is only following its instincts and won't understand what it's being punished for.

The key is to correct any excessive dependence they're exhibiting, get them used to time away from people, and get them feeling less anxious, the animal expert says.

This should be done with professionals who can help you build up your dog's confidence without causing them too much stress.

Ms Martínez says "Safe Zones" like a dog bed with toys are also important, as getting them used to being there can "boost a dog's security and confidence".

If you are keen to get some help with your dog's behaviour, the health professional stresses that its important to take it slow. "Ideally, you should start when they are puppies, although you can also work with adult dogs as long as you do so patiently and gradually," she told the outlet.