Dog separation anxiety is a very common problem that most pet owners face. All levels of anxiety can be annoying, from the simple barking inclination when the owner leaves to destructive behavior while the owner is gone. When the minor anxiety such as barking is not stopped it eventually may lead to destructiveness. This is why dog training is so important.
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The Reasons Behind Dog Separation Anxiety
By nature, dogs live and travel in packs. They attach easily and strongly to their owners. When the owner leaves the house they become irritated. Much of the actual dog separation anxiety comes from the routine actions that you create. This means that with dog training, you can ease the worry in your pet.
Routines can include giving them love and affection before you leave and when you come back. During the time you are gone the dog feels alone and becomes anxious for you to return.
Ways to Reduce Dog Separation Anxiety
Several things can be done in order to reduce dog separation anxiety. The following are among the easiest dog training methods available today.
Mix Up the Routine
Changing your routine is helpful. Your dog can start associating specific things that you do with the process of leaving home. If you notice the agitation with various actions then you should start mixing things up a little. If the alarm clock brings irritation then get up at different times or use different methods.
You may also like to read: How to Teach Your Dog to Lay Down
Remove the Association
One of the easiest ways to remove the association of you leaving is to not to give a lot of attention prior to leaving or upon your return. When you make a fuss over your comings and goings, they will too. Also, it is important not to make a big deal over the whimpering and sad noises. Practice this dog training step by putting them in a room, then leave and come back in various time lengths.
Start Small and Progress to Longer Times
Sometimes a dog gets agitated the minute the owner walks out the door. If this occurs then the best thing to do is to leave home for shorter time periods. Always keep them guessing. Leave for a few seconds, then a few minutes then back to a few seconds, then try longer periods of time mixed in. They will learn not to expect your arrival thus breaking the anxiety riddled routine.
You’re Being Responsible, Not Mean
There are some people that do not understand dog training and feel as though they are being mean to their pet. This couldn’t be further from the truth. By implementing these methods you are helping your dog relax and get rid of this overpowering dog separation anxiety.
These actions will allow them to learn that you are not abandoning them and that you are in control of your home and actions. Reducing these powerful urges and feelings in your dog can be healthy for their physical body and mental well being.
Whenever there are obvious and severe dog separation anxiety issues with a dog, it is imperative that it be addressed as soon as possible. Getting rid of these feelings of abandonment is a compassionate thing to do, not to mention it will significantly reduce or eliminate the destructive behavior. Dogs need to be be taught not to associate your actions with the survival of the pack.
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