Helping Your Dog Cope with Separation Anxiety at Home

If your dog experiences separation anxiety, it’s important to begin addressing it at home well before their boarding stay. With a little preparation, you can ease their anxiety and help them feel more confident when it’s time to leave them at Woof Woof Ranch.

Here are some tips to help your dog manage separation anxiety:

Start with Short Absences
Begin by leaving your dog alone for short periods and gradually increase the time they spend by themselves. This will help them adjust to being away from you. Start by leaving for just a few minutes, then slowly extend it to an hour, a few hours, and eventually a full day. The key is to make absences a normal part of their routine.

Create Positive Associations with Alone Time
Help your dog view your absence as a positive experience by providing distractions when you leave. Give them a special treat, a puzzle toy filled with their favorite food, or a chew toy to keep them occupied. Over time, they’ll start to associate your departure with something they enjoy, reducing their anxiety.

Practice Calm Departures and Arrivals
When you leave or return home, avoid making it a big event. Stay calm and neutral to show your dog that being alone is no big deal. Excited greetings or emotional goodbyes can increase their anxiety. Instead, give your dog attention only after they’ve had a moment to settle down.

Use a Safe, Comfortable Space
Make sure your dog has a cozy, safe space they can retreat to when you’re away. Whether it’s their bed, crate, or a specific room, having a familiar and comfortable area can reduce stress. You can also introduce a blanket or item of clothing with your scent to provide extra comfort.

Practice Desensitization Techniques
If your dog reacts to specific cues—like picking up your keys or putting on your coat—practice these actions without leaving the house. For example, grab your keys and sit down for a while instead of heading out. This will help desensitize your dog to these triggers, reducing anxiety when it’s time to actually leave.

Gradual Crate Training (If Applicable)
If your dog uses a crate, ensure they see it as a positive, secure space rather than a place of confinement. Start by encouraging your dog to spend time in the crate with the door open, using treats or toys to make it an enjoyable experience. Gradually extend the time they spend in the crate while you’re home, so they feel more comfortable when you leave them for boarding. Whilst guests have their own suites for meals and night time only, we are happy for you to bring their own crates to pop in their suite for extra familiarity and normality for them.

Consult a Professional if Needed
If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe, don’t hesitate to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide tailored strategies and guidance to help your dog overcome anxiety.

By practicing these strategies, your dog will start feeling more comfortable spending time away form you, making the transition to boarding at Woof Woof Ranch much easier. Helping your dog cope with separation anxiety at home will not only benefit them while you’re away but also improve their overall confidence and well-being.

Conclusion

Addressing separation anxiety at home is a crucial step in preparing your small dog for boarding. At Woof Woof Ranch, we provide a safe and nurturing environment to make your dog’s stay as stress-free as possible. But you can start helping them now by easing their anxiety and ensuring they’re ready for a fun, relaxing experience with us.

Want more tips or advice? Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to assist you!