Pet parents are often unaware that their dog is suffering from separation anxiety. You might notice your dog gets stressed and shows destructive behavior when he is left alone. Physical signs include howling, barking, salivating, whining, panting, trembling, pacing, or dilated pupils. Other signs are destroying household items and scratching furniture. Your dog might also attempt to make an escape desperately. Such behavior can be quite distressing for any dog parent. Here are some tips to help you tackle separation anxiety in your dog.
1. Start Off With Shorter Absences
Pet parents usually leave their dog for 8 hours daily due to work. If you have plans to leave your dog for longer periods of time, you can always ask a friend or a dog walker to keep your pup company. Avoid leaving your dog alone for too long. You can start to train your dog to be alone while you’re still in the house. You can practice by gradually leaving him alone for 5 minutes then increasing the time by 20 minutes. Continue until you have reached the intended number of hours that you will be absent. You should do this over a period of several weeks. This will increase his tolerance level to your absence and avoid him suffering from an anxiety attack.
2. Don’t Make Your Departure Felt
Ensure that you don’t make leaving and arriving home a big deal. Behave normally and avoid giving any cues like grabbing keys. If your dog gets affected by you leaving, he will become over stimulated and will not be able to cope in your absence. You can teach your dog to recondition the way he reacts to you leaving. You can do this by putting your coat on and then not leaving for 10 minutes. You will indirectly teach him that putting on a coat does not always mean you are leaving. This will help him avoid emotional triggers to these cues. In a way, you are saying goodbye to him long before you leave. It is important to not provide elaborate greetings to your dog when you leave or come back. Say hello quietly and don’t get too affectionate until he has calmed down.
3. Exercise Your Dog Before You Leave
Take your dog out for a brisk walk before you leave. Exercising your dog will help him calm down and relax. You can walk your dog for 15 – 30 minutes before you leave. Ensure he stays hydrated throughout the walk. This will tire your dog and also divert his attention while he rests. Consider hiring a dog walker if other commitments don’t allow you to walk your dog.
4. Keep Your Dog Occupied During Your Absence
Your dog needs to stay happy and calm in your absence. Play him calming music or sounds of humans which you know will help him stay relaxed. You can leave him an item that has your scent which he can smell. You might want to leave toys and treats so he remains occupied while you’re not at home. Try hiding treats around the house, so that he keeps himself busy trying to look for them. The idea is to comfort your dog so that he feels safe and secure. If you’re still finding it challenging, you can hire a dog walker or pet sitter.
5. Stay Calm & Get Advice About Separation Anxiety
Before you leave the house, it is important for you to be assertive and remain calm yourself. Keep any guilty or nervous emotions aside. Your calm behavior will in turn reassure your dog that everything is fine. But don’t hesitate to seek help from a Dog Trainer or Veterinarian if you are concerned that things are beyond your control. Check that the Dog Trainers you consult with are experienced and certified. Our trainer here at Buster and Whiskers, Igor Sachser, is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and is an evaluator for the American Kennel Club. If you choose to see your Veterinarian about your dog’s separation anxiety, anti-anxiety medications can help ease symptoms. There are also natural alternatives such as St. John’s Wort, chamomile, or Valerian. Please consult your Veterinarian as any medicine should be given only with your Veterinarian’s consent.
Separation anxiety is often confused to be a behavioral issue, such as disobedience. Be sure to watch out for signs and react in a calm manner. Your goal is to find the most calming anxiety methods which will ease and comfort your dog in your absence. Combating separation anxiety requires a lot of patience and dedication from you as a dog parent, and will be well worth the effort.
Buster and Whiskers is a Dog Walking Service, Dog Training Service, and Dog Hiking Service located in Astoria, NY. We offer affordable and quality Dog Walking Services, Dog Training Services, and Dog Hiking Services in Astoria, Queens, NY. Contact us if you need a reliable and professional Dog Walker here in Astoria, NY.
