Pleasing 4 Pets

A recent report has revealed that there are approximately one million dogs which will become distressed and display increasingly destructive behaviour if whenever they are left alone. This is known as separation anxiety.

A chief vet from threading animal welfare organisation the RSPCA said: -

“Typically dogs will bark, chew furniture, and/or urinate and defecate indoors when left alone by their owners; It may not be obvious to owners that a dog suffers from separation anxiety. Unless owners find evidence of destructive behaviour or toilet problems when they return home, they may be totally unaware. If a dog has this problem it is important to teach them that it is okay to be left alone”.

If you suspect that your dog may be showing signs of separation anxiety it is vital that you remain consistently relaxed and predictable in your approach to him.

Offer him rewards when he is well behaved, and lavish him with extra attention or with treats. Take no notice of any attention seeking behaviour that he might display.

It is not recommended that you punish your dog, as this will damage your relationship and may cause your dog to be afraid of you. A dog which may appear shamefaced or remorseful will have simply realised that on occasion you become cross on your return home, but your dog does not possess the ability to relate you temper to what they did whilst you weren’t at home.

It is a good idea to leave your pooch alone for steadily increasing intervals - begin by leaving your dog home alone for just a minute and progressively build up the time that you are away from him.

Provide your dog with a pleasant distraction or diversion to keep him occupied in your absence such as a chewy bone or a sturdy rubber toy filled with treats.