Overcome Separation Anxiety In Dogs
Learn help your dog overcome separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can cause your dog to become destructive in your absence. Use these tips to treat mild to severe anxiety in dogs.
Instructions
1. Create a safe harbor for your dog. When you must leave your dog alone, put them in a room that has a window for your dog to look out. Barricade the room with articles of clothing that you have previously worn. Put worn PJ's, T-shirts or shorts near the door entrances for your dog. Dogs dealing with separation anxiety are comforted by the scent of their owner. In the doggy world, human scent has protective qualities and can ward off an attack from other animals. You should instantly notice less anxiety and panic in your pet and this is the first step to overcome anxiety in dogs.
2. Remain calm when leaving your dog. Your dog can pick up on your own anxiety or panic. Calmly use a code word or phrase that indicates your departure and remain calm while issuing the departing command. Begin by leaving your dog alone for short intervals and then build up the time that you are away from your home. You must gradually condition your dog to accept being alone. Dogs who suffer from separation anxiety often howl, bark, whine and scratch at doors in order to reunite with owners. If your dog often follows you from room to room, this could signal that your dog has an anxiety problem. Jack Russell Terriers (JRT) are a breed of dog that routinely must work to overcome anxiety issues. JRT's often urinate and defecate on the floor when their owners leave because they become scared and view the separation as traumatic. Being patient with your dog is a must. Never punish them for these negative behaviors as punishment can make separation anxiety worse.
3. Talk with your dog's Veterinarian about drug therapy. The vet can prescribe calming medications to mildly sedate your dog. Sedatives can help overcome separation anxiety in dogs by relaxing their nerves and helping them to sleep while you are gone. Sedatives should only be used to treat severe anxiety in dogs. Consider an over-the-counter calming aid for less severe cases.
4. Use constant positive reinforcement for your pet. When your dog successfully overcomes separation anxiety and you no longer return home to a pile of poop, reward them by giving them a special treat or by babying them in that special "cooey" voice they absolutely adore. Your dog will respond well and look forward towards continually pleasing you.
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