Training Tips: Separation Anxiety 

There are many dogs who may have issues when their owners leave the house.  This is common, but there are so many ways to address these concerns.  Unfortunately, many of these dogs may be destructive to the house or even go to the extreme of hurting themselves to try and get out of the house.  This behavior is known as separation anxiety.  This article will explain what separation anxiety is and what you can do to help your dog along the way.

There are many different things which may trigger separation anxiety in your dog.  Most dogs create a strong bond with a member of the family.  If that person leaves the house, the dog may have a hard time dealing with their absence.  This may be especially true with leaving puppies alone for the first time as they fear that you will not be coming back.  Dogs with separation anxiety panic when they are left alone.  The bad thing is that they can be destructive and harm things in your house or even themselves.

Below are some recommendations on what you can do to help with your dog’s separation anxiety.

Training – It is important to teach your dog that you will be returning home.  Try walking out the door and stay for a few seconds.  Walk back in and let them know you are back.  Extend the time you are out of the house so that your dog can become more comfortable while you are away.  Eventually your dog will learn that you are going to be coming back which will lessen the separation anxiety.

Crate Training – You must teach your dog that their crate is a safe place.  It is important to reward them for staying in their crate.  This will help your dog get used to a space of their own and it also allows them a place to go to when they are tired or stressed.  If you leave your dog at home in their crate, we recommend that you throw in something that has your scent on it.  Think of a t-shirt or pillow.  Your scent will comfort your dog while you are away.

Doggy Daycare – Enrolling your dog in doggy daycare may be another option.  Keep in mind that separation anxiety can be trained, but it takes a lot of patience and consistency.  Doggy Daycare will fill the void and allow your four-legged friend to socialize with other dogs while working on their mental and physical stimulation.

These are some of the best things that you can do to help lessen the separation anxiety. As always, it is best to consult with your veterinarian if you continue to have issues with separation anxiety.  Make an appointment for an examination.  Your veterinarian may prescribe medications which will help your dog.