One of the most common behavioural issues owners report is that their dog becomes destructive or disruptive when left home alone. This can be frustrating and it’s easy to believe your pups being naughty, but these behaviours are actually signs of distress and separation anxiety.
You need to help your dog adjust to being home alone
According to the PSDA Paws Report 2021 18% of dogs acquired since March 2020 have shown signs of distress when left alone.
Create a Safe Space
While they get used to being alone limit their access one room, use baby gates, puppy pens or a crate. Plug in the Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser to help them feel calm and relaxed. This is important because it keeps them and your belongings safe, remove any temptations to chew and any hazards like cables. All the best things, such as playtime and mealtimes, should happen in this area so your dog builds a positive association, and it should be cosy with a bed for them to snuggle up in. You can also try turning on the radio or tv for background noise.
Start Small
Gradually introduce some alone time for your pet when you are still around. Try leaving them alone regularly – but at different times of day – and for short periods. Remember that dogs are smart, and humans are predictable. Get your dog used to you picking up your keys, putting on your coat and moving out of sight – as if you are leaving the house. As your dog adjusts, try gradually increasing the time you spend away but don’t be tempted to increase it too quickly!
Make it Fun
An empty house can be boring and lonely, try giving your pup something to distract them while you’re gone such as a Kong, chew, their favourite toy or hide some treats for them to sniff out.
No Fuss
This one’s hard but leaving and coming home should be as boring as possible. No hugs, kissing or long goodbyes and no running to them with open arms when you come home otherwise they will associate these actions with you going and their anxiety will be building before you’ve even left the house.
These steps can take time and it is important to move at your dog’s pace, in more severe cases of separation anxiety you may need to seek professional help. Speak to your vet first, and they can recommend an accredited behaviourist once your dog has a clean bill of health.
Blog post sponsored by CEVA