Dog Behavior Modification - 3 Helpful Tips for Separation Anxiety

Maple has separation anxiety. She has had it every since she was a puppy. Maple is a "major" momma's girl. Walnut, her twin sister, doesn't have separation anxiety. It is really bizarre.

Dog behavior modification has been the only way to help with the separation anxiety.

I have crate trained the dogs. I do know when I leave the house that it won't be destroyed when I come home. But, Maple does "freak out" when I get home and released from the crate. So, I immediately give her a toy to carry around in her mouth. This makes her feel safe and secure (I don't know why, but it calms her down).

When I leave, the separation anxiety is non-existent. It is only when I come home. But, Maple does calm down right away after I give her the toy, because I ignore her, until she relaxes.

Walnut, on the other hand, gets immediate attention because she is relaxed and calm.

Funny...they are sisters from the SAME LITTER.

The most effective treatment for separation anxiety involves dog behavior modification. Many dogs respond well to confinement in a small space because it makes them feel secure. If a dog enjoys crate or room confinement, as shown by sleeping or snacking while confined, owners should use this technique both when they are at home as well as when they are absent. Remember, the crate or "safe room" is an area where the dog feels safe and content; never use the crate or "safe room" as punishment.

Crate training is essential in proper dog care, but also in behavior modification. If the owner is able to start with a puppy, this will minimize the separation anxiety greatly. If the owner gets a dog, crate training is still possible, as well as, behavior modification, if there is separation anxiety.

Dog behavior modification begins with you, the pet owner.

Looking for the signs of distress are not difficult if you pay attention. Dogs that become distressed after owners leave are usually distressed before they leave.

Owners need to learn to recognize the signs of distress: panting, pacing, whining, trembling, digging, failing to eat, ears tucked down and back; all these indicate stress. Owners can not reward these behaviors by saying "You're okay!" Before the dog becomes distressed, owners should calm behavior by talking to the dog, massaging it or grooming.

If the dog still becomes upset when the owner leaves, they must ignore the behavior and not fuss over the dog. Fussing or sympathizing unintentionally rewards the anxious behavior.

One of the best tips for dog behavior modification is exercise. The more you exercise your dog, the more stress is relieved, hence, the less your dog will chew your shoes when you are gone.

There is a direct correlation with stress reduction in humans and exercise. The same goes with pets. Take your dog for a long, and I mean a LONG walk. It will be a great stress reliever for you and your pet. Think of all the bonding you will have and the terrific health benefits!!!