Are you a homeowner who has ever gone out of your home and left behind your dog’s barking and whining? Have you ever returned to find furniture or other household items damaged or shredded at your home? Even though your dog is potty-trained, did they have an accident?
Are you able to keep your dog safe if you’re nearby but trouble starts when you go away?
Dogs that show signs of anxiety, fear, panic, or discomfort when you leave them are most likely suffering from separation anxiety.
Around 50% of dogs have separation anxiety. This is a very common problem. However, you can help your dog feel better when you’re not there.
How To Help Your Dog Deal With Separation Stress
These tips can help you to overcome separation anxiety and stress in your dog.
Be Quiet When You Come And Go
The vet might suggest that you leave your dog as calmly as possible. You could prepare everything and then go quietly. When you return home, wait to greet your dog till they are calm and happy.
No Touch, No Talk, No Eye Contact
Do not make a big deal about leaving or returning home for the day. You are communicating with your dog that it is not a big deal to be away for a while. It’s business as usual! You may need to practice this rule for up to an hour depending on how severe your dog’s anxiety is.
Begin Small, Leaving Your Dog Alone For Five Minutes.
Begin by leaving your dog alone for five to ten minutes. Next, increase the time to twenty minutes and then an hour. You can continue to increase your time away until your dog is completely calm.
Keep Your Dog Entertained
Give your pet something to do when you’re not there. You could give your pet a new toy or a puzzle to solve, or even a chew stick.
You Can Leave Your Dog With An Audiobook
Study after study has shown that audiobooks can calm dogs and reduce separation anxiety. Even if you’re not there, the sound of a human voice can reduce stress in dogs.
Leave The Tv On
Dogs love to listen to and watch animal-friendly TV programming. You have the option of choosing a show you want to turn off or one that only features animals. This can be a great way to reduce anxiety and nervousness in your dog while still keeping him calm.
Try Other Ways To Crating
Consider other options if your dog is anxious if they are left alone in a crate. You could consider a baby gate that you can use to keep your dog in a spare bedroom.
Get Them Tired
Before you go to work, try to get energy from your pet. You could take them on a walk before going to work or play with them for a bit.
Stay Calm
When you are dealing with separation anxiety in your dog, try to be calm and gentle. Your dog will mirror your emotions.
Consider Supplements Or Medication
Your vet might be able to give medication to help relax your dog. You may also consider cbd aceite for its many relaxing benefits.
These tips will help you to reduce separation anxiety in your dog. Although there is no magic bullet that can cure separation anxiety in dogs, the tips and information above can be very helpful. You will feel more relaxed if you calm your dog.