The last year has been posed with challenges for us all. For some of us our whole worlds have been thrown upside down. We will be producing some information on how to help reduce the impact that this may have on our dogs.
Separation related problems-
This is definitely one that we want to work on now to avoid problems from developing. One of the common reasons for our dogs developing separation problems is having prolonged periods of time at home with owners. It will therefore be important to maintain their ability to be left on their own. This could be just while you pop out to your car or walk to the local shop or are pottering in the shed in the garden out of site. If your dog has already displayed separation anxiety you may feel relieved that you are now at home and no longer have to leave them, this could now make those anxieties worse.
It will therefore be important to
Continue a routine, (walking, feeding, sleeping)-If your dog is able to cope being left continue to ensure you leave them for periods of time in the day. Whenever you do head out ensure you do all the normal things you would normally do (departure cues) pick up your keys etc.
Work on building your dog’s self-confidence and independence giving them things to do in a different room to yourself. This may include activities such as scatter feeding, kongs or other games.
If the attachment is orientated to one person, you can see if another member of the family could interact with the dog or begin an activity – If you find you have more family members at home, try to spread out the duties (walking, feeding etc) so that the dog doesn’t become reliant on one person.
If you are unsure whether your dog is settling when they are left alone, set up a camera so that you can monitor their behaviour. If your dog is displaying any signs of anxiety please contact us on the details above.
