Many dogs have separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs
exhibits behavior problems when they’re being left alone at
home. This often leads to excessive barking, whining, chewing,
house soiling and other types of destructive behavior. If your
dog can comfortably spend the night away from you, then it is
very likely your dog does not suffer from separation anxiety.
However, if he has been throwing tantrums by showing some kind
of dramatic anxiety response every time you leave home, your dog
probably has it. It is important to understand that dogs behave
in such way is not an attempt to seek revenge or punishment for
leaving them behind. It is indeed a natural panic response for
being away from the owner even for a short period of time.
Separation anxiety is one of the most common complaints of
dog owners and in most cases they don’t even realize it. You
need to find out whether your dog has separation anxiety so that
proper treatments can be given to correct this behavior.
Keep a boring, low-key departure. Long-dramatic farewell will
create more anxiety in him. A casual “Goodbye” or “See you
later” will do. When you first arrive home, ignore him for a
couple of minutes, and then calmly pet him.
Always
provide him with lots of exercise and playtime. A tired,
well-exercised dog is a happy dog. He will be much more
contented to sleep during the day while you’re away. Mental
exercises such as training and socializing with other dogs are
all great activities for your dog.
Provide your dog with
some of his favorite toys and treats so that he will have
something to do while you’re gone. Stuff some treats into his
toys to keep his mind occupied rather than having him waiting
anxiously for you to come back.
You need to train your dog to be accustomed to your
departure. Firstly, leave him for a couple of minutes and then
comes back to him. Do not a make fuss over your dog. Repeat this
step until he’s not anxious anymore. Then, gradually leave for
longer periods of time and comes back. Make sure to practice
this over and over again until he gets used to being alone at
home.
About the Author:
Author Emillie Loh is a dog lover and owner of a dog-related
website. Visit
http://www.the-dog-obedience-training.com/ for more
information on dog behavior and training.
