Learn the Do's and Don'ts of Treating Puppy Separation Anxiety
Does your new Coton de Tulear have puppy separation anxiety? Do you know the best way to treat separation anxeity in dogs? Not sure whether to use dog behavior modification training, crate training, medication, or even doggy yoga? This is a common, yet preventable and treatable problem.
Does this sound familiar? You’re heading out the door and your dog isn’t having any of it. He cries, he whines, he barks, he gives you that look that melts your heart into a thousand pieces.Then when you come home you find he’s got laryngitis from barking all day, and he’s destroyed your expensive throw pillows and 2 pairs of shoes. Ruh Roh! Now What? What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs? If your dog is exhibiting signs of severe pet anxiety, the first thing you should do is see your veterinarian to ensure that there are no physical reasons for your dog’s behavior and symptoms.
Is your dog exhibiting any of these classic signs of separation anxiety? - Whining
- Pacing
- Digging
- Excessive drooling
- Barking or howling
- Hyperactivity
- Scratching
- Chewing
- Potty training issues
- Destructiveness
If so, what do you do? What is the best way of treating puppy separation anxiety? Unfortunately, there isn’t one method that works best for all dogs. Some breeds, like the Coton de Tulear, are more prone to this problem than others and may need more than just some basic training. But there are several methods that have been proven to be successful in treating or preventing puppy separation anxiety: Do’s:- Leave him alone for short little breaks at first so he gets used to it little by little. The sooner you start doing this, the better. Gradually increase the amount of time you leave him alone. He will start to understand that when you leave, you ALWAYS come back.
- When you are home with him, make it quality time. Play with him, take him for long walks, and just let him hang out with you and your family.
- Provide interesting toys and treats for him to play with so he won’t get bored while you’re gone.
- Give your dog lots of exercise before you leave. It's been proven that dogs who get lots of activity are more calm and content.
- If exercise isn't an option before you go out, try mental exercise like obedience training. A 10 minute training session can have the same effect.
- Some dogs calm down by listening to classical music. Experiment with different kinds of music to see if your dog responds positively.
- If your dog is crate trained, which is recommended, you may want to leave him in the crate where he will feel safe and calm.
- Try herbal remedies like Rescue Remedy that calm and sooth your dog's anxieties.
- Train your dog properly, letting him know that you are the pack leader and have everything under control. Your dog will feel less frightened and anxious if he knows he doesn’t have to be in charge.
- Be patient.
Don’ts:- Don’t isolate your dog by keeping him in a room locked away from the rest of the family. If you keep him in a crate, keep the crate in the room with you.
- Never use punishment for puppy separation anxiety symptoms; it will only exacerbate the problem.
- When you leave the house, don’t make a huge deal of it by giving him lots of extra hugs and attention. Just be relaxed and casual. Your dog picks up on your anxiety, so if you are cool an calm, your puppy will likely be calm as well.
- Don’t leave your dog alone for very long periods of time. Dogs like the Coton de Tulear are not meant to be alone for long periods of time. If you work full time, there are all kinds of options available to ensure your dog thrives while you're away, such as pet sitters, doggy daycare, bringing your dog to work with you, or having friends or neighbors care for him while you're gone.
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