Dogs are very attached to their owners and can be very upset when left alone.
To minimize stress for your pet, you need to prepare properly.
First, accustom your dog to being alone gradually. Start with short absences of 5-10 minutes, then increase the time. Say goodbye to your pet as usual, and do not make a tragedy out of leaving.
Secondly, take your dog for a good walk before leaving. Physical activity will help it cope with loneliness more calmly.
Thirdly, leave the dog its bed, toys, and bowl of water. You can turn on some quiet, calming music. Close the windows and doors to the rooms where it is not allowed.
One of the main causes of stress in dogs left home alone is boredom, so it is important to keep your pet occupied before leaving.
You can fill special puzzle toys with treats inside with interesting contents. Rubber toys that the dog can chew and squeeze on its own are also suitable.
Give your dog a separate place where she can rest peacefully in your absence. This should be her personal space with a bed, soft toys, and water.
Do not feed your pet before leaving, otherwise it will be restless waiting for the next meal. It is better to give food after returning home.
Some owners turn on the TV or radio while they are away, so that the dog doesn't get so bored and lonely. The main thing is that the sounds are pleasant and quiet.
If the dog is left alone for a long time, you can ask friends or special sitters to visit it during the day and walk it.
In addition to boredom, dogs miss their owner when alone. To reduce separation anxiety, leave your pet something with your scent on it - a shirt you wore. You can also leave an audio recording of your voice.
Get your dog used to the crate or pen in advance if you plan to leave it there when you are away. First, it should learn to associate this place with comfort and safety.
On the day of your return home after a long separation, do not give your dog many compliments or excite it. Behave calmly.
If, despite all precautions, your pet shows signs of severe stress when alone - crying, howling, aggressive behavior, be sure to contact a veterinarian or dog trainer. Medication may be required.
The main thing is to be patient, do not punish the dog after returning home. Over time and with the right approach, the pet will learn to calmly endure temporary separation from the owner.
These are the basic tips for adapting a dog to loneliness. I hope this information will help make absences from home less stressful for your pet.
Previously we wrote about how to feed a guinea pig in winter.
Author: Valeria Kisternaya
