10 Tips to Cure Dog Separation Anxiety

You love your dog, but coming home after a long day of work can be very stressful if your dog suffers from separation anxiety.  This seems like an overwhelming problem with no end in sight, but your dog’s separation anxiety can be relieved.  Here are 10 tips that will help cure your dog’s separation anxiety.

1. If your dog is not crate trained, now is the time to start training your dog.  Crate training can provide your dog with the positive reinforcement he needs in order to cope with his separation anxiety. 

2. Many dogs have an extremely difficult time when their owner leaves for work in the morning.  In order to leave the house quickly, it is a good idea to distract your dog as you are leaving the house.  By doing this, your dog will not realize you are leaving.

3. Talk to your veterinarian in order to receive a diagnosis of separation anxiety.  It is best to rule out other conditions in order to properly treat your dog.

4. Offer lots of praise when your dog engages in positive behaviors.  This will help boost your dog’s self-esteem and will help to reduce some of the negative behaviors associated with separation anxiety.

5.   Do not make a big deal about leaving your home.  Make a quick exit so that you will not stress out your dog. 

6.   Do not give dog free reign over the house while you are away.  A big, empty house can be overwhelming for a dog that is suffering from separation anxiety.  Instead, limit your dog to a smaller space that is appropriate, given the size of your dog.

7. If your dog suffers from extreme separation anxiety, you may want to work from home for a few days.  During this time, you can leave the house for short periods of time and then return, gradually working up to a several hour stretch.  This teaches your dog that if you leave the house, you will return, thus easing their anxiety.

8. There are several holistic treatments available for dogs that have separation anxiety.  You may want to discuss these treatments with you doctor.  However, you should be cautious and not leave your dog unattended the first few times you give the dog the treatment, should a problem or complication arise.

9. Make sure your dog has plenty of food and water to last throughout the day.  Many owners make the mistake of leaving just enough for the day, which can panic a dog.  Make sure your dog sees your leaving the fresh food and water in the morning before you leave.

10. It is also a good idea to leave your dog with a piece of clothing that smells like you, like a t-shirt.  Dogs have a very good sense of smell and your scent will comfort them when they feel lonely.

If you and your dog are suffering the effects of separation anxiety, know that it can be solved through consistency and a little hard work on your part.  In a few weeks, your dog should be fine when you leave for work.

By Jacqueline Harris