How to keep my dog quiet when I leave for work in the morning?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Hello, this sounds like a form of separation anxiety. There are few things you can try at home to manage this behavior. This may take some time to change so you be patient when modifying her behavior. Hope this helps and best of luck.
  
  What is separation anxiety?
  Separation anxiety is a state of panic and distress that occurs when a dog is away from his owner; whether you are simply in another room or have left the house. Dogs with this disorder are generally well behaved when the owner is present, and only display signs of anxiety when unable to be in the immediate vicinity of their owner. Signs of separation anxiety can range from mild to severe.
  The following are some behaviors associated with separation anxiety in dogs:
  • Excessive salivation
  • Pacing
  • Not eating
  • Excessive vocalization (whining, barking, howling)
  • Escape attempts
  • Urination or defecation in the house
  • Self-inflicted trauma (broken teeth or nails trying to escape)
  • Destruction (chewing objects, scratching walls and doors)
  What causes separation anxiety?
  Separation-related issues stem from the social tendencies of dogs to be pack animals. The human-animal bond is a very special thing, but in some cases this bond can be too strong. Such dogs are sometimes termed “Velcro dogs,” because they must always be right next to their owner. They may follow their owner from room to room, sleep next to their owner, and never let their owner out of sight. These dogs have not yet learned to be comfortable with being independent from their owners, which is why separation causes them distress.
  Is he doing this because he is mad?
  No! It is important to understand that this behavior is caused by panic because your dog loves you “too much,” and feels highly insecure when you are not there. Any damage done by your dog is not of malicious intent or out of “spite”. As a result, punishment is not an effective treatment, and may result in increasing your dog’s anxiety.
  How do I prevent my dog from developing separation anxiety?
  The goal of preventative action is to teach your dog that being away from you is a positive experience. Some suggestions for accomplishing this are:
  • Practice “sit and stay.” Ask your dogs to sit and stay, then move a distance away that your dog is comfortable with. Reward your dog for remaining calm. Gradually increase the distance and time that you are separated. If your dog does not stay or becomes anxious, decrease the distance and duration of the exercise until your dog is successful.
  • Desensitize to normal leaving cues. Use objects that are typically only associated with you leaving, but stay at home. For example, jingle your keys and then sit down to read a book. Grab your purse and then go make dinner. Put on your work shoes and walk around the house.
  • Leadership exercises. This is a concept that works on the principle that your dog should have to “earn” everything good he gets in life. For example, if he wants to go for a walk he must sit quietly while you put on his leash. Or before giving him his dinner, he must lay down. This helps your dog become less dependent on you, increases your sense of control, and assists in reducing your dog’s anxiety.
  • Practice leaving. You want your dog to trust that you are coming back and stay calm while you are gone. Practice leaving for small incriminates of time, even if just closing the door for a moment at first, and rewarding your dog for remaining relaxed.
  • Minimize “Goodbye” and “Hello.” To teach your dog that leaving and arriving is not a big deal, it is helpful to not draw attention to the fact that you are leaving or have been gone.
  • Give distracting treats and toys. Give your dog a positive distraction with long- lasting tasty treats approximately 20-30 min prior to your departure that will occupy him until after you have left. For example, a peanut-butter-and-kibble-filled Kong®. Also, provide plenty of chewable toys for your dog’s entertainment while you are away.

  

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