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Anxious Pup (5 Tips for Separation Anxiety)

Dog anxiety is a real thing, help your pup cope with being alone.

By Ashlyn LeidyPublished 5 years ago 4 min read
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So I recently became a dog mom to my fur baby Jazz. I love it. I to be able to rescue an animal and give him an entirely new life. One thing that's been a learning curve is being able to deal with Jazz's separation anxiety. When I first saw him at the shelter he clung to me. He wouldn't leave my side.

Since bringing him home, I've realized that he has a severe case of separation anxiety when I leave the house (or his sight) for any period of time.

This is especially common in shelter or rescue dogs because they are used to being abandoned and neglected. They have an underlying fear of being abandoned at all times. Whenever they sense that you are leaving they freak out.

Jazz whines, barks, howls, destroys garbage cans, and pushes his dish over making a big mess. I was finding myself feeling anxious and guilty just thinking about leaving him. This article contains tips to try to help your pup adjust to his new life and begin to gain trust again.

1. Don't make a big deal about leaving and returning home.

This one is SUPER hard for me. I want to kiss and hug him while talking in my mommy voice to tell him that it's going to be okay. However, experts advise that you don't make a big deal of leaving or returning in order to send the message that it's not something to be afraid of. It will take time for your dog to get used to his new home, the routines you establish and to finally realize that he's not going to be abandoned again.

2. Don't respond to bad behavior.

Sometimes, barking, jumping, and scratching are ways that your dog is trying to get your attention after being left alone. Try your best not to make eye contact, pay attention or acknowledge your dog while he is doing these things. It sends the wrong message to them. Only respond to your dog when he or she is relatively calm.

3. Give him a treat before you leave.

Giving your dog a treat before you leave, and then unemotionally leaving (you can say something like "see you later!" Make sure to use the same phrase every time) can help him realize that you will return. Some of the Kong toys can be helpful if your dog likes to play so that his mind is stimulated and not so worried about your departure.

4. Play calming music for him while you are gone.

This is actually very interesting. I have tried this with Jazz and sometimes it works, but sometimes I feel like it doesn't have much of an effect if he is really anxious. I play this one here.

5. Try CBD oil.

CBD oil is now the rage for humans and their furry companions. I actually am trying to put a few drops on Jazz's treats before I leave him because apparently, it helps with anxiety as well as inflammation and discomfort. Make sure the CBD that you use is tested for dogs so that it's at the right dosage. If you don't want to give your dog CBD oil, ask your vet about alternatives for helping to calm him down.

6. Loooooooong Walks

This tip is also great for your dog's overall health. Try to get at least 30 mins of walking or similar activity daily for your furry friend. This helps to wear them out as well as producing an endorphin-like effect. Leaving your dog after some vigorous activity will give them the opportunity to nap and relax while you are absent.

7. Be patient.

It's rough in the beginning when your dog seems to freak out whenever you leave but this is where patience comes in. Put yourself in their shoes. If you had some major changes in your life without warning and entirely new faces and places to adapt to, you'd be a little anxious too. Be tender with your pup and let him know that it's okay. Lots of cuddles and kisses when he's calm with help to reinforce the bond that you have with him.

Additional advice: I don't advise any harsh methods like crating (especially if he's an older rescue dog- it usually makes anxiety worse because it reminds them of their time in the shelter) or shock/bark collars. Your dog needs a safe, relaxing and comfortable environment to be able to calm his fears.

I hope this helps any of you dog moms and dads out there with an anxious pup. Thanks for the reads and shares!

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About the Creator

Ashlyn Leidy

Sharing my experiences from my crazy, funny amazing life.

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