Are you concerned about how your dog will react once things resume their typical routine?
After more than a year of being in and out of lockdown, is this the new normal?
We spend practically every waking hour at home with our dogs, so leaving them is a difficult prospect for us.
Expert guidance is available for noisy and reactive dogs, multi-dog homes, puppies and young dogs, and dogs suffering from separation anxiety.
What role has lockdown had on dogs' separation anxiety?
“Owners have praised it as well, citing the benefits of having a partner with whom to converse and share their thoughts, as well as how snuggling your dog makes you feel better and allows you to relax more.
“Many dogs have started following their owners everywhere, including to the bathroom, and they've had plenty of time to adjust to not being left alone.
“A spike in separation issues is unavoidable, comparable to what owners face when they return to work after having a kid or taking a long summer break.”
What are the telltale signs?
When left alone, dogs may cry, howl, or bark and walk around, unable to relax and nap.
In their agitation, some dogs slobber excessively, ruin items, or even chew themselves, which is unpleasant for both the dog and the owner
It's hardly surprising that these dogs go all out to meet their owner when he or she returns home.
What can I do to avoid this?
Because treating full-blown separation anxiety takes a long time and a lot of effort, it's critical to take action right away to educate your dog to be comfortable and relaxed when left alone.
Allow your dog some alone time every day. Go outside and garden or take care of that outdoors maintenance you've been putting off. Take a brief drive or go for a solo walk.
Prevent your dog from following you around the house. Close all doors, particularly the toilet door. Close the kitchen door or, if it's safe, keep your dog outside while you cook. Use baby gates or confine your dog to his crate or enclosure for brief periods of time.
Encourage your dog to take a break and get some rest. In dogs, lack of sleep causes mood changes, lethargy, difficulties concentrating, and, in severe cases, PTSD or hostility. Allow your dog to sleep in a comfortable bed in a different room at least a couple of times a day. As we get out of lockdown, try to timing these for when you'll be leaving your dog.
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