Separation anxiety is a terrible condition that affects many puppies when they’re first adjusting to their new homes and families. If this condition is left to worsen, it can affect a puppy’s development and health. Try out these seven effective remedies to better your puppy’s separation anxiety.
1. Develop a schedule
Puppies thrive on a routine. They want to know when you’ll be home, when they’ll get walked and when the food bowl will be filled again. A routine gives them confidence in their day and in expecting what will happen next. Establish a schedule you follow every day so your puppy can fully develop their independence when they know you won’t be home.
2. Crate train
Crate training is immeasurably valuable as it provides a place where your puppy feels safe and secure. They won’t feel locked away when you’re not home, and they’ll choose to be in their crate even when you’re around. You’ll also have better control of your puppy during an emergency if you teach the command. Crate training is recommended for all puppies, even if they’re not suffering from separation anxiety, to assist them in finding security and comfort in the home.
3. Use crate when at home
Along with basic crate training, encourage your puppy to spend as much time in the crate as possible. Use treats, toys, and other comfort items to increase their attachment to their crate. Forcing a puppy to endure hours in a crate when they’re unhappy or feel unsafe can lead to lasting behavioral issues. They may develop fear toward the crate and begin acting out around the home. Taking the time to improve your puppy’s feeling of security will ensure they’re well-adjusted.
4. Exercise fully
Puppies are more likely to be unhappy, vocal and even aggressive when they have too much energy to burn and nowhere to use it. Schedule time before you leave to play and run with the puppy. This can be planned when they’re let out to use the bathroom to combine their needs. Don’t schedule this time right before going into the crate as they may want to continue playing and will try to get out of the crate. Puppies need some time to deescalate right before you leave for work or to run errands.
5. Fulfill needs when alone
Ensure your puppy has everything they may require while you’re gone. They should have a recent potty break as well as snacks or a meal before going into the crate. They need a clean water source during the day to stay hydrated and a bed or blankets to sleep on. Provide them with their favorite toys that will give comfort and distract them. As a new dog owner, you need to facilitate independence in your puppy and encourage them to feel safe when alone.
6. Research medicines and therapies
Your puppy may need additional help when overcoming their separation anxiety. Your veterinarian can recommend scent plug-ins that relax and calm your puppy during the day. There are also collars and diet supplements that will increase feelings of safety and peace. Assisi loop is a form of transformative therapy that will dramatically improve your puppy’s health for the better. This form of therapy helps with reducing inflammation which lessons your pup’s anxiety and creates a more relaxing environment for them.
7. See a behaviorist
Puppies can quickly develop moderate to severe separation anxiety if their conditions aren’t addressed soon enough. If your puppy begins to show signs of trying to destroy or bite their way out of the crate, begin having accidents in the home, show aggression, or any other worrisome signs, contact a behaviorist. Professional guidance is necessary when you can no longer help your puppy. They require expert guidance and care to get better.
Conclusion
Separation anxiety is a common issue in puppies that aren’t yet sure how to live independently without their family members constantly nearby. Minimize this condition’s damage by establishing a strong routine in your household and ensuring your puppy is having all their needs met. When putting the health of your puppy first, you’ll more easily understand and correct why they’re unhappy or acting out.
