My Crazy Dog

My Dog Has Anxiety - What Do I Do?

A common issue that many dog owners have with their 4 legged friends, is separation anxiety. What exactly is separation anxiety? It is a condition that is disruptive behavior that occurs when a dog is left alone as a distress response to separation from the person or persons to whom it is attached. Fortunatly, there are several ways you can help soothe and ease your dog if they are suffering from separation anxiety. Be sure to get your dog a nice orthopedic dog beds to help relieve his stress and anxiety.

First, while it is healthy and positive for you to give your puppy or dog lots of attention and affection, avoid spending all your time with your pooch! From the very beginning you should be getting your pet used to being without you. This should be done gradually so as not to cause your pup or dog trauma which can lead to negative behaviors and mindset. Start by going to a different room and closing the door behind you, leaving your dog by himself in another room. Do this several times every day. Next, leave him alone in the house for five minutes, then fifteen, and so on, until he is comfortable enough to be left alone for several hours at a time. You may also look into getting a nice large dog beds for your dog, so he will be comfortable.

Secondly, being home alone should be a positive and enjoyable experience for your dog. So to insure a positive association when you go away, give your dog a new toy before you leave the house. Provide him with different toys when you are home so he doesn’t associate the toys with you going out and leaving him. Another strategy is to give him his favorite snack or a hollow bone filled with tasty treats that will take the dog a while to finish. By doing these simple things, you are relieving their tension, anxiety, and feelings of fear. Your dog will enjoy these comforting activities while you are away. Be sure to view these dog supplies and choose some that will comfort your doggy.

When the time comes when you must confine your dog when you will be away, you will need to create a positive association with the room they will be staying in. Use special toys that are only to be used when your dog is confined as well as chew treats to make the room or space fun! Make a point to spend time with your dog in that space or room to further give them a wonderful association and experience. Do not put your dog in a crate! This will only reinforce loneliness and anxiety.

Next you want to not make a big deal or fuss about leaving. Don’t feel guilty about leaving either. Ignore your dog for atleast 10 minutes before leaving the house and then do the same thing when you return. The reason for this is it will diminsh your dog’s need for excitement and anxiety for you leaving and when you arrive home.

Last but not least, you can eliminate separation anxiety by giving them enough exercise. This does not mean run them until they are ragged or put them through a “boot camp”. Simply give them enough exercise so that they are relaxed and tired. A brisk walk or jog are great ways of exercise that will relax and tire your dog without pushing them to exhaustion. If they are tired and relaxed then they are less likely to have the energy to dwell on you leaving and being stressed out by it.

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