What Can You Do For A Dog With Separation Anxiety

A calm and assertive leader can ease separation anxiety in dogs.

What can you do for a dog with separation anxiety.

If boredom is the reason for the acting out you should see a big change in your dog s behavior. Only give them this treat when you re gone and take it away when you get. Most dogs can benefit from increased exercise particularly dogs suffering from a milder form of separation anxiety called separation intolerance. Instead of sleeping with your pup get them a separate dog bed where you can also pet them and give calming treats.

Feed him in the crate let him have his favorite bone to be used as a stress reliever while he is in there. Crate training to avoid dog separation anxiety. The association of professional dog trainers provide a useful checklist for helping you find a reputable behaviorist. If your dog has severe separation anxiety start with small 5 10 second intervals and work up to 20 30 minutes over several weeks.

Many dogs with separation anxiety lock in on certain things that you likely do before leaving them alone such as showering picking up car keys putting on your street shoes etc. It can help these dogs to make those cues less likely to predict that you are leaving. When you are home have your dog familiar with being in the crate. Give your dog a special treat each time you leave like a puzzle toy stuffed with peanut butter.

If the problem is mild. Leave your dog alone for five minutes then extend the time to twenty minutes then an hour. Create personal space for your dog. Working out your dog s brain and body prior to leaving him alone might help him settle during your absence.

Start out small by leaving your dog alone for just five minutes. If your dog displays signs of separation anxiety try adding an extra walk playing games of fetch or tug of war enrolling in obedience classes or a providing your pet with a variety of safe dog toys. Those who have more severe symptoms will likely not take to this well and can become extremely stressed even during short phases of absence.