With some time and a lot of patience, your dog will have a renewed sense of confidence - and you can be confident knowing that you can leave the house without making your dog anxious.
If you've ever come home to find that your otherwise well-behaved dog has destroyed furniture, had "accidents" on the carpet, or has been disturbing the neighbors with his loud howling, it's very likely that your dog is suffering from separation anxiety.
Dogs are one of the most social creatures on earth. They just love spending time with you, whether they're playing a game with you or just curling up next to you on the couch. So when it comes time for you to go to work or leave the house for long periods of time, it can make your dog lonely or anxious.
There are a number of reasons why dogs suffer from separation anxiety:
- Fear of abandonment—This is especially common with rescued strays and dogs that have been adopted from animal shelters.
- A change in your dog's daily routine—This can include changes such as going from not working or working part-time to a full-time job—or anything else that suddenly keeps you away from the house for longer (or different) periods of time.
- Moving to a new home or other change in environment.
5 ways to nip separation anxiety in the bud
- Confine your dog. Try to keep him in an enclosed area, such as a crate, when you're out. Dogs are den animals, so they feel safer in their own small space. This will protect both your dog and your belongings.
- Alter your habits. Do you have a set routine each day before you leave the house? Perhaps you jingle your keys, put your bag or briefcase near the door or kiss your spouse and kids. Your dog picks up on these cues, and associates them with your leaving. Try to mix up your normal routine by doing your usual activities in a different order.
- Practice leaving. Plan short trips that allow your dog to gradually
adjust to being alone. If your dog seems comfortable after half-hour
departures, and exhibits no anxious behavior, increase your time away.
- Go for a walk. Taking your dog for a long walk before you leave will help make him too tired to misbehave after you leave.
- Keep your dog busy. Before you leave, bury toys and hide treats where he can find and "dig" them up. Keeping a TV or radio on can also provide "company" for your pooch.
Try not to cure your dog's anxiety problem by giving him even more attention—you'll only create a vicious cycle of neediness. Likewise, never get angry when your dog acts clingy as you prepare to leave. This can cause even more anxiety because your dog will associate your absence and return with punishment.
With some time and a lot of patience, your dog will have a renewed sense of confidence —and you can be confident knowing that your dog is fine being home alone.