It is always enjoyable to come home to a warm welcome. However, if that welcome is accompanied by chewed shoes, soiled carpet and neighbor complaints of excessive howling, you might be facing a case of dog separation anxiety. Here are 5 tips that can help to sooth your dog’s anxiety woes.
1.) Walk Your Dog
A quick walk in the morning can help to place your dog in a calm, peaceful state before you leave. To help this process you might want to consider utilizing a dog backpack and placing extra weight in it. Once you return home, be sure to reward your canine with food and water.
2.) The “3 Nos”
By implementing the “3 Nos” you will express to your dog that you leaving is not a big deal, which can help to keep your pooch calm. The 3 Nos are:
– No touching.
– No talking.
– No eye contact.
3.) Say Your Goodbyes Early
If the 3 Nos are too hard for you to handle, then try saying your goodbyes well in advance of your departure. This way you can satisfy your need to display affection but still be able to maintain that subtleness when you do eventually leave.
4.) Be the Pack Leader
You must give your dog an example to follow. If you can stay calm and assertive and stick to the separating process, then you allow for your dog to do the same. Remember, canines are intuitive so you must display serenity for them to receive it.
5.) Ease into the Process
It is okay to take baby steps. Implement the steps and leave for 5 minutes. After a while exit again for 10-15 minutes. Continue to build to an hour and more. A pattern completed for 30 days becomes a habit, at which point it will be second nature.
Do not let separation anxiety run amuck in your home. By implementing these 5 easy steps you can ensure that your furry friend remains calm while you are away.