Soothe Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety plagues so many dogs. This article will give you some tips to help soothe their anxiety when you leave.

If you’re a parent to a dog with separation issues, the word “vacation” might make you more stressed out than relaxed. Even with a loving dog sitter who keeps your dog in a home environment with familiar sights, scents, and sounds, separation anxiety in dogs can still be a tricky thing to deal with. Luckily, there are several things you can to do give your dog the confidence to cope while you’re away.

Reinforce Leadership Your dog relaxes when he knows you are in charge. Make sure you are taking the reins on your daily walks and play sessions. Take time for short “training breaks” throughout your day, with lots of praise for great results. Whether you’re asking for a sit or a trick before meals, giving treats, petting, or taking a trip in the car, your dog should be prepared to participate with you as the leader.

The Not So Long Goodbye Keep greetings and departures calm and undramatic. if your dog is hysterical when you come home, ensure that you don’t give attention until your dog is calm and able to sit quietly. Similarly, if your dog knows your “leaving the house ritual” too well, desensitize the dog to the various steps. For example, try putting on your coat and grabbing your car keys—and then watch TV for 20 minutes.

Good Boundaries To help your dog be confident and independent, it’s important to set and maintain boundaries. You should be the instigator for all petting and physical affection during this time. If you regularly cuddle with your dog on the couch, he needs to sit and be invited first. Sleeping in the bed is also off limits until your dog can spend a night happily away from home.

Make sure your dog has a bed in your bedroom and that you put it right by the big bed. If your dog is disinterested in his new bed, you can “charge” it by feeding him meals on his bed, and doing training practice with lots of tasty rewards and/or petting while he’s on this bed. This is a great opportunity to teach you dog, “Go to bed” or a similar command. As your dog warms up to his new favorite place, you can use it as a good base for longer Sit-Stays, working toward exiting the house and coming back to your dog—hopefully on his bed!

Vary Your Schedule Occasionally A dog with a varied schedule is less likely to be disturbed by changes in routine. Try mixing up the weekly routine with an occasional dog walker, doggie daycare, or play dates with friends. Make sure you try a single-night sleepover before booking an extended stay to see how it all will go. Maybe there’s a “staycation” or dog-free date night in your future!

Familiar Items When Away From Home When you have to part company, make sure your dog has his familiar bed, toys, food, and maybe a well worn shirt of yours for comfort. A special treat he only receives when you’re gone, or a toy he only has when you aren’t there could also help him enjoy his alone time more.

Lots of Exercise—especially right before you leave. Taking your dog for a nice long walk before you leave for the day or on a trip sets him up naturally for “down time.” He’s eliminated, he’s worn out, he’s ready for a nap. Regular daily exercise helps your dog work out tensions and anxieties that may be building up. Making time for even a short additional walk every day can make a world of difference in your pet’s outlook.

Consider Supplemental Items - suggested by your trainer or veterinarian Rescue Remedy and other natural calming aids, Thundershirts, and even prescription medication are all possible additions to the good training you’re working on. The professionals who know your dog best may have other specific recommendations for your situation. And lastly, make sure you’ve ruled out any possible medical conditions that could be exacerbating your dog’s anxiety.