Dogs are social and love having us around, but there are times when you need to leave them behind, whether you’re attending a family event in a different part of the world or going on your honeymoon. Dogs need to understand that it’s alright to be left by themselves, but what do you do if your furry friend has separation anxiety? If you’re considering Dog Boarding in Maryland, how do you ensure your pet is ready for boarding?
How to Tell If Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety in dogs is a common issue that often arises when a pup becomes overly attached to its owner. It typically occurs due to changes in schedule, environment, or after a traumatic event. Understanding the root cause is essential for addressing the problem effectively.
Not all dogs suffer from separation anxiety. However, if you’re not sure, there are ways to figure it out.
First, you can set a camera close to the door, just to see what your dog does once you leave the house. Many dogs wait by the door, so make sure to cover that area.
Different dogs have different habits, so you may need some trial and error in finding the best spot to record your dog’s behavior.
Here are a few signs to consider:
Whining noises
Howling or barking
Trembling
Drooling or panting
Destructive behavior, such as chewing shoes or destroying furniture
Urinating or defecating indoors
It’s important to differentiate separation anxiety from other behavioral issues. For example, boredom or lack of exercise can also lead to destructive behavior, but this is often resolved by increasing playtime and mental stimulation.
Also read: Separation Anxiety in Border Terriers: 5 Tips for a Happy Dog.
What to Do to Prepare Your Dog Boarding in Maryland
Preparing your dog for boarding can be a smooth process with the right approach. Here are a few useful ideas to prepare your dog for boarding.
Take the dog with you. If you’re visiting more kennels prior to boarding, your dog should go there too for a bit of sniffing and getting used to the place.
Encourage the dog to be independent. When at home, make sure the dog isn’t too reliant on your actions and attention. If the dog doesn’t always depend on your attention, it can cope better in a boarding kennel.
Counter condition the dog. The process implies teaching your dog that it’s perfectly safe to be alone in a place. Training implies focusing on your home. It’s a gradual process that takes time.
Exercise the dog. Prior to taking the dog to the kennel, it’s important to give it good exercise. Mental stimulation is just as important prior to leaving, as it can help your furry friend settle down much easier.
Confidence Is Important before Dog Boarding in Maryland
Build up your pet’s confidence before dog boarding in Maryland, especially if it’s anxious when alone. While there are more causes behind this anxiety, the lack of confidence is one of the most popular ones.
Building up their confidence isn’t too difficult. Just like people, dogs react better if their confidence is boosted with different rewards. They’re basically encouraged to be happy and use their initiative, so they’re more likely to do things themselves.
Basic training will help, whether it comes to new tricks, new behaviors, rewards for small successes and so on.
You can also introduce your dog to different people, pets, and environments. This broadens their comfort zone and helps them handle new situations more calmly.
Independence Is Just As Good
Independence is the opposite of separation anxiety. You can train it with food toys, which force the dog to find a way to reach the food. Keep it close to you at first, then place it further and further. The action pushes the dog to settle down and do things without you.
Baby gates throughout the house will also help, as you can go to different rooms and engage into different activities without having the dog nearby.
If you struggle, you can always throw a few threats around while leaving the room. This way, your dog will be slightly distracted.
In the end, following these tips not only calms your dog’s anxiety but also lets you feel at ease, knowing your pet is happier and more self-sufficient when you’re not around.
