In this weeks blog we will be focusing on separation anxiety for dogs. Many dogs can become anxious when separated from their owners. Common symptoms include destroying certain things in the house or general destructiveness, constant escaping, excessive barking, digging or other unusual behaviours your dog doesn't normally display.
Today we will be focusing on simple environmental changes that can help alleviate your dogs stresses and anxieties. Obviously, these work great when coupled with behavioural response strategies. For today though we will be focusing on environmental changes, behavioural response strategies are for another time!
Here are the strategies;

- Give them some long lasting treats or fill a go slow eating bowl before you leave. Other things can include treat hiders etc. This is to get them through the first 10-30 minutes without you.

- Play fun interactive games such as fetch or tug of war just before you leave the home. This will tire them mentally and physically.

- Make sure your dog gets physical exercise every day. If your schedule allows it, walking them just before you have to leave or allowing them to roam around a safe dog park is excellent. The longer the better!

- Some owners even try to organise their dog a walk during the middle of the day (organise a reputable dog walker).

- Your dog may also benefit from a small visit from a friend or relative to give your dog some company. Even a 5 minute stop, a little game playing and more go slow treats will be a massive help!

If your dog has severe separation anxiety and no behavioral training or environmental changes are working, we advise you to seek consultation from a vet and get an appropriate action plan.
Let us know below if you've tried any of these strategies and if they've worked for you.

Thanks,
The Pampered Pet Team