How to properly train a puppy against separation anxiety

February 20, 2022 -

Training a puppy against separation anxiety is a difficult task but it's not impossible. If you're looking for a way to help your puppy overcome their separation anxiety here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Start training your puppy as early as possible preferably when they are between 8-12 weeks old.
2. Begin by leaving your puppy alone for short periods of time gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable.
3. Create a safe and comfortable space for your puppy to be in when they are alone such as a crate or designated area.
4. Provide your puppy with toys and treats to keep them entertained and distracted while they are alone.
5. Establish a consistent routine for when you leave and return home so that your puppy knows what to expect.
6. Avoid making a big deal out of leaving or returning home as this can cause your puppy to become anxious.
7. Avoid punishment or scolding your puppy for separation anxiety-related behaviors as this can only make the problem worse.
8. Reward your puppy with praise and treats when they show signs of being calm and relaxed while alone.
9. If your puppy becomes anxious or distressed when left alone try using a calming spray or diffuser with calming pheromones to help them relax.
10. Consider seeking the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist if your puppy’s separation anxiety persists or becomes severe.
11. Be patient and consistent with your training as it may take some time for your puppy to overcome their separation anxiety.
12. Practice leaving and returning home during different times of day as well as during different activities to help your puppy become accustomed to different scenarios.
13. Avoid leaving your puppy alone for extended periods of time as this can increase their anxiety and make it harder for them to adjust.
14. Gradually increase the time you leave your puppy alone in their safe space starting with just a few minutes and gradually increasing to longer periods.
15. Provide your puppy with plenty of mental and physical exercise before leaving them alone as this can help them relax and tire them out.
16. Use positive reinforcement training techniques such as praising and rewarding your puppy when they behave well to encourage desired behaviors.
17. Avoid rewarding your puppy for anxious or destructive behaviors as this can reinforce those behaviors and make them worse.
18. Help your puppy feel secure and comfortable in their safe space by providing them with a cozy bed and toys to chew on.
19. Be aware of your own body language and behavior when leaving and returning home as this can influence your puppy’s emotional state.
20. Avoid making a big production out of leaving and returning home as this can cause your puppy to become anxious and stressed.
21. If your puppy becomes anxious or distressed when you leave try leaving them with a special toy or treat that they can only have when you are gone.
22. Don’t make a big deal out of saying goodbye to your puppy as this can cause them to become anxious and stressed.
23. Avoid abruptly leaving your puppy alone as this can cause them to become anxious and stressed.
24. Use a calming spray or diffuser with calming pheromones to help your puppy relax and feel more comfortable when left alone.
25. Avoid leaving your puppy alone for extended periods of time as this can increase their anxiety and make it harder for them to adjust.
26. Be consistent and patient with your training as it may take some time for your puppy to overcome their separation anxiety.
27. Provide your puppy with plenty of mental and physical exercise before leaving them alone as this can help them relax and tire them out.
28. Avoid punishing or scolding your puppy for separation anxiety-related behaviors as this can only make the problem worse.
29. Use positive reinforcement training techniques such as praising and rewarding your puppy when they behave well to encourage desired behaviors.
30. Help your puppy feel secure and comfortable in their safe space by providing them with a cozy bed and toys to chew on.
31. Be aware of your own body language and behavior when leaving and returning home as this can influence your puppy’s emotional state.
32. Avoid making a big production out of leaving and returning home as this can cause your puppy to become anxious and stressed.
33. If your puppy becomes anxious or distressed when you leave try leaving them with a special toy or treat that they can only have when you are gone.
34. Don’t make a big deal out of saying goodbye to your puppy as this can cause them to become anxious and stressed.
35. Avoid abruptly leaving your puppy alone as this can cause them to become anxious and stressed.
36. Use a calming spray or diffuser with calming pheromones to help your puppy relax and feel more comfortable when left alone.
37. Gradually increase the time you leave your puppy alone in their safe space starting with just a few minutes and gradually increasing to longer periods.
38. Be consistent and patient with your training as it may take some time for your puppy to overcome their separation anxiety.
39. Seek the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist if your puppy’s separation anxiety persists or becomes severe.
40. Remember that every puppy is different and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and persistent with your training and eventually your puppy will overcome their separation anxiety.

Conclusion

As you can see there are many different ways to train your puppy against separation anxiety. The most important thing is to be patient and consistent with your training as it may take some time for your puppy to overcome their separation anxiety. If your puppy’s separation anxiety persists or becomes severe consider seeking the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist.