Separation Anxiety in your Dog

 Over the past couple years there has been an increase in dogs being adopted as people have started working from home. Pups across the world enjoyed the constant presence of their people and the extra attention that comes with it. However, for many, work places are starting to pull people back for "in person" hours.

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Going back to the office (in person) for work?
Separation Anxiety in your Dog

       Over the past couple years there has been an increase in dogs being adopted as people have started working from home. Pups across the world enjoyed the constant presence of their people and the extra attention that comes with it. However, for many, work places are starting to pull people back for "in person" hours. People are slowly returning to the office- which means your dog, who is use to you being home, is most likely going through some sort of separation anxiety. Dogs thrive on routine and learn to expect certain rituals, so helping them get use to a new schedule will be important.  

       What can Separation Anxiety look like?

• Loud barking/whining 
• Damage to doors or windows (exit points)
• Peeing/Pooping inside 
• Not interested in eating 

       So how can we help them?   

• Getting a plan in place- When you know your schedule is about to change, start building up more of a sense of independence in your dog. For instance, leave the house for lunch, or put your dog in a different part of the house for an hour or two. When you see them again, praise them! let them know they did a good job. Build up the length of time as you go, so when they are left for longer periods of time, they know what to expect. Like everything else, transitions will be a lot smoother if one takes the time to plan ahead.

 

• Spend quality time before you leave for the day- This might mean waking up 15 to 30 minutes earlier to spend some time on a short walk, or playing with their favorite toy. It is important to spend a few minutes burning energy before they are left for the day. This will not only boost their morale, but yours as well! 

 

• Invest in some fun toys!- Puzzle toys and (safe) chew toys can help prevent your pup from getting bored. There are snuffle mats that have fabric flaps and loops that hide kibble or treats for your dog to sniff out as well. These will also help keep their minds off the fact their favorite person hasn't returned from work yet!

 

• Treating your our own Anxiety- its no secret that dogs often can sense every emotion we might be having. With going back to work, there might be a bit of anxiety about the huge change it will be for you! Make sure to take time for yourself and allow yourself time to ease back in to what it looks like to commute back and forth. Dogs pick up on your mood and take their cue from you about how they should feel about new situations. 

     
 We can all agree, the only constant is change. It is important to take the steps to keeping your pup and yourselves mental health a priority.