Back-to-School Blues: Managing Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety
With back-to-school season upon us, there are big changes to the whole family’s routine! For your pet, particularly dogs, this might mean a period of confusion when the youngest members of your family aren’t home with them during the day anymore.
Signs your dog has separation anxiety include:
-Excessive barking, howling, or whining for a longer than normal period
-Peeing inside
-Chewing furniture or scratching at doors
-Panting or drooling more than usual
-Obsessive pacing
-Trying to escape
-Lethargy and disinterest in playing
-Reduced appetite
-Trembling
However, there’s good news! Separation anxiety is completely manageable. If your dog begins to get nervous the second you put your shoes on, desensitize them to shoes meaning alone time by putting your shoes on and then doing errands around the house for a few minutes before heading out.
Similarly, don’t be over the top with hellos and goodbyes, as this signals that your leaving is an event. Rather, exit the house calmly to show them that it’s a normal part of the day – when you return home, ignore them for a few moments, as hard as it may be for you or your kids! This shows them again that coming and going is standard and nothing to worry about. Lots of treats and affection can be given after a few minutes.
Puzzle toys and slower treats like frozen Kongs are also a great way to keep your pup busy and engaged as you head out the door (maybe they’ll even associate your leaving with them getting tasty treats!)
Lastly, it’s important that they’re getting enough exercise, even with your busy schedules. A tired pup has less energy to be anxious and will nap through much of the school day.
