Have you got a nervous dog who doesn’t like to be left alone? Is he attached to a specific member of your family or to your whole household? Do you think your dog might have separation anxiety? If any of this sounds like your dog’s situation, you may need to find out how to help him with the issue of dog separation anxiety in White Bear Lake, MN.
Many dogs deal with this problem, but it can be challenging for some owners to figure out how to help. Read through the information below to find some of the top suggestions for helping with dog separation anxiety.
Act Natural
When you are getting ready to leave the house, don’t act like there’s anything wrong. Don’t coddle your dog or talk too much to him, and especially don’t treat him as though he’s got anything to be upset about. Even if you are sad about leaving him behind, don’t let him see this or hear it in your tone.
When you get back home, wait a few minutes to greet your dog until he settles down again. This may, over time, teach him that you want him to be calm when you get back from being away.
Train Your Dog
Dog separation anxiety in White Bear Lake, MN is not a behavioral problem, and it should not be treated as such. You should especially not punish your dog for this problem. However, you can still train your dog in certain ways that can help him feel better and calmer when you need to leave home.
For example, it’s a good idea to teach your dog a specific word or command that lets him know you are leaving. This way, he can understand what’s about to happen and won’t be surprised by it. You can also start giving him treats when you say this command to add some positive reinforcement to the situation.
Provide Old Clothes
Dogs tend to feel better when they can smell the scent of the person they enjoy being around the most. If your dog is attached to a specific family member, provide him with old clothes or dirty laundry he can lay on or sniff when he needs a reminder of the person he is closest to.
This only works if your dog will not shred or chew on your laundry while you’re gone. However, most dogs do not want to destroy clothing that smells like their favorite people, so it can be a good solution for many dogs because of this.
Try Aromatherapy
Some dogs respond well to aromatherapy. In order to use aromatherapy around a dog, be sure to place an essential oil diffuser near your dog’s general area, but not right in his face. Make sure the diffuser can reach your dog without overwhelming him with the scent.
Be sure to choose essential oils that are completely safe for use around animals. Lavender is an excellent choice, as it is calming, soothing, and safe for dogs to be around too. Place the diffuser in a location where your dog cannot reach it for safety purposes.
Give Your Dog Toys
Toys may be able to distract your dog when you leave the house. Some companies make specific toys for this purpose. These toys can usually be filled with treats or other goodies that your dog wants to access, which then encourages him to play with the toy until the treats are released.
This is a great way to get your dog’s mind off of being left alone, and it’s also useful for reminding your dog that there are positive elements of this situation too. You can use treat toys as positive reinforcement, which may in turn help solve the problem over time.
Medication
In extreme situations, your dog may need to be medicated for his anxiety. However, you should never medicate your dog without the express guidance of your veterinarian, and you should not give your dog human anxiety medication without being told to do so by the vet either.
Speak to your vet for more suggestions and recommendations for your dog, and remember that medication may not always be an option. Your vet will be able to give you the most accurate information for your individual pet.
Finding a Solution for Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety in White Bear Lake, MN
Did you find something useful for you and your dog? These suggestions may not all work for every dog, but with a little patience, you can easily find the right solution for your dog’s needs. Take your time trying these options to find the one your dog responds to the best.
Keep in mind that you may need to speak with your vet about your dog’s separation anxiety as well. Your vet may be able to give you more specific information for your individual dog based on his health, temperate, and other needs that could affect your options.
If you have any questions about your dog’s separation anxiety in White Bear Lake, MN give Birch Lake Animal Hospital a call at (651) 426-2246!
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