Does your new puppy seem to have behavior issues whenever you’re not around? Dogs are pack animals, and when they are left alone, they can experience separation anxiety. It can manifest itself in various ways, such as barking, chewing, whining, and so on. If you’re experiencing this problem with your puppy, don’t worry! You can take steps to help reduce the anxiety and make the separation process easier for both of you! This article will discuss some tips that have been proven to reduce puppies’ separation anxiety.
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Give Them Something That Smells Like You
One of the best ways to reduce separation anxiety in puppies is to give them something that smells like you. This can be anything from a piece of clothing you’ve worn recently to a blanket that’s been in your home. Dogs use their sense of smell to identify and connect with people, so providing them with something that smells like you will help them feel more comfortable when you’re not around. It also helps create a sense of security and familiarity for the puppy.
Make Sure They Get Exercise
Puppies (and dogs in general) are much less likely to experience anxiety if they get plenty of exercise. A tired puppy is a happy puppy! Make sure to take your puppy for walks and play with them regularly. It will help them burn off some of that energy and reduce the amount of anxiety they experience when you’re not around. It is so effective because dogs use physical activity as a way to relieve stress.
Leave Them With A Trusted Friend
Leaving your puppy with a trusted friend can help reduce their separation anxiety. When you leave them, make sure to provide clear instructions on how to take care of your puppy and what to do if they need anything. Leaving a list of emergency numbers is also a good idea. It may also help to schedule some time for your friend to spend with your puppy each day, even if it’s just for a short walk around the block. It will help them get used to being away from you and help reduce their separation anxiety.
Give Them Something To Do
If you are leaving them alone for a short time but still worried about them being anxious, try giving them something to do. This can be anything from a chew toy to a Kong toy filled with treats. The idea is to provide your puppy with an activity that will keep their mind occupied and distracted from that you’re not around. It is a great way to help them pass the time and reduce their anxiety. Just keep in mind that this may not keep them distracted for very long.
Give Them A Special Treat
Giving your puppy a special treat is a great way to show them that you care and that you’ll be back. The important thing is to save this treat only when you leave and make sure it’s one of their favorites. It will help them associate you going with something positive and make the separation process a little easier for them. Some good examples of these treats would be a piece of cheese or some cooked chicken. Just make sure that the treat won’t upset their stomach if they eat it before you leave.
Leave The TV On
This is a controversial one, but some people have had success leaving the TV on for their puppy while they’re away. The thinking behind this is that the TV’s sound will provide some background noise and help reduce the amount of silence in the house. It can help to make your puppy feel less alone and stressed while you’re away. Just make sure that you don’t leave the TV on so loud that it’s disturbing to them! If you don’t know what to leave on, there are many programs made just for dogs, so you can try and find one that your pooch enjoys!
Don’t Make A Big Deal Out Of Leaving
This is probably the most important tip on this list. If you make a big deal out of leaving, your puppy will sense that something is wrong and will only worsen their anxiety. So try to act like it’s no big deal when you’re leaving, and don’t give them too much attention before you go. It doesn’t mean that you can’t show them affection, but try to keep it low-key. Puppies are smart and they will pick up on your emotions. If you’re anxious about leaving them, then they will be too.
Practice Leaving Them Alone
This is a simple way to work on your puppy’s separation issues. Try leaving them alone, but do it in small stages. Start by leaving them for just a few minutes and then gradually increase the amount of time you’re away. It will help them get used to being alone and make the process less stressful. Over time, they should start to feel more comfortable when you’re not around.
Use Natural Calming Supplements
If you’re struggling to find a way to reduce your puppy’s separation anxiety, then this may be a good option for you. Several natural calming supplements on the market can help reduce your puppy’s anxiety. These supplements work by providing them with certain vitamins and minerals that can help to soothe their mind and body. Just make sure that you talk to your veterinarian before giving them any supplement.
Conclusion
There are several ways to reduce your puppy’s separation anxiety, but the most important thing is to be patient and consistent. Each puppy will respond differently to these tips, so it may take trial and error to find what works best for you. But if you’re patient and stick with it, then you should see a reduction in their anxiety over time. And remember, if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, there’s no shame in seeking professional help. A qualified trainer or behaviorist can provide you with even more tips and guidance on dealing with your puppy’s separation anxiety.
