Intro
Coming home after a long day is never helped by shredded furnishings and stressed out pup. Separation anxiety is tough, but not impossible to manage. Here are five proven steps to help your dog feel safe when you’r egone.
De-stigmatize the ‘Departure Cues’
Your dog starts panicking before you even leave because they recognize your exit signals. Start doing these thingswithout actually leaving. Pick up your keys while watching TV. put on your shoes and sit on the couch. This breaks the link between these actions and the anxiety of you leaving.
The ‘No-Fuss’ Arrival and Departure
It’s tempting to give a big emotional goodbye, but this actually signals to your dog that your departure is a big deal. Try ignoring your dog for 10minutes before you leave and 10 minutes after you return. Keep it calm and boring so they learnthat you’re coming and going is just abnormal non-event.
Interactive Mental Stimulation
[snorts]Give your dog a job to do. A froze treat dispensing toy or a snuffle mat should be given right as you’re about to walk out the door. This creates appositive association with being alone and keeps their brain busy while you’re away.
Short ‘Micro-Absences’
Don’t start by leaving for 4 hours. Start with 4 seconds. Walk out the door,close it, and come back right in before they have a chance to get anxious. Gradually increase this to 30 seconds, then 2 minutes, then 10. You’re building their loneliness muscle slowly.
Create a Safe Haven
Designate a safe zone with their favorite bed, a piece of your clothing that smells like you, and maybe some calming music or white noise. This environment helps lower their overall stress levels.