Prepare Your Dog Before You Leave
Help your dog feel safe and calm before you go, so they can relax while you are away—keep reading to learn how.
Exercise Thoroughly: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical activity to help them relax.
Dogs need daily exercise to lower stress and prevent separation anxiety. A long walk, a game of fetch, or active playtime helps your dog use up energy. Tired dogs rest better and are less likely to feel anxious while you are away.
A tired dog is a happy dog.
Active dogs also show fewer signs of boredom or destructive behavior. Make sure walks happen before leaving the house to help your pet settle into their routine with comfort and security.
Regular activity supports mental stimulation and bonding time too.
Gradual Training: Practice short absences to build your dog’s confidence.
Start by leaving your dog alone for just a few minutes. Give them a treat or interactive toys as you leave the house. Increase the time of each absence slowly, adding five to ten minutes each day.
Use comfort items like your t-shirt or a favorite blanket to help with separation anxiety.
Practice this routine every day if possible. Many trainers recommend working up to at least thirty minutes of alone time before longer trips away from home. Short absences teach that being apart is safe and normal for pet care routines.
This gradual training helps lower stress and builds trust between you and your dog sitter or pet sitter in the future.
Calm Departures: Keep goodbyes quick and low-key to reduce anxiety.
After practicing short absences to help with separation anxiety, focus on keeping departures calm and low-key. Dogs sense your mood, so act neutral during goodbyes instead of making a fuss.
Quiet exits send the message that leaving is normal and not scary.
Keep greetings simple when you return too. Avoid drawn-out hugs or excited talk as these can raise stress for your dog. Quick, relaxed arrivals and departures help build comfort in their routine while you are away.
This small change supports security and reduces stress for both you and your pet.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Create a cozy space for your dog. Set up their bed, toys, and water where they feel safe and happy.
Safe Space: Set up a designated area with their bed, toys, and water.
Set up a safe space for your dog. This area should have their bed, toys, and water. It helps them feel secure while you are away. Make it cozy and familiar, whether you live in an apartment, a traditional house, or even metal homes, where sounds and temperature changes can feel different to pets. Use a blanket or item that smells like home to comfort them.
Having their favorite toys can keep them busy. They will enjoy playtime in this special spot. A designated area gives your dog routine and stability during your time apart. This sets the stage for a relaxing environment while you’re not there.
Familiar Scents: Leave an item with your scent, like a t-shirt or blanket.
Leaving an item with your scent can help your dog feel more at home while you are away. Use a t-shirt, blanket, or even a towel that smells like you. This familiar scent provides comfort and security.
It reminds them of you.
Dogs often feel anxious when separated from their owners. A comforting item can ease this stress. It gives them something to snuggle with during lonely times. Creating this small connection can significantly improve their mood and behavior.
Background Noise: Play calming music or leave the TV on for added comfort.
Playing calming music can help your dog feel more at home. It drowns out strange sounds that might make them anxious. Soft tunes can create a peaceful atmosphere for your pup while you’re away.
Leaving the TV on is another good option. Choose shows with gentle voices or nature scenes to soothe them.
Many dogs find comfort in familiar noises. These background sounds can ease their separation anxiety. They feel less alone and more secure in their space. Providing this kind of environment helps keep your dog relaxed during your absence.
Next, let’s discuss how to provide mental stimulation through toys and activities.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Keep your dog’s mind active with fun toys. Use puzzle toys that hide treats to challenge them and make playtime exciting.
Puzzle Toys: Use treat-dispensing toys or frozen Kongs for engagement.
Puzzle toys help keep dogs engaged and entertained. Treat-dispensing toys can hold small snacks. Your dog will have to figure out how to get them out. This challenges their mind and keeps them busy.
Frozen Kongs are another great option. Fill a Kong with peanut butter or yogurt, then freeze it. This gives your dog something tasty to work on for a long time. Both types of toys provide mental stimulation that helps reduce separation anxiety while you are away from home.
Rotate Toys: Keep your dog interested by switching out their toys regularly.
Rotating your dog’s toys can keep them engaged and happy. Dogs may get bored with the same toys every day. By changing their toys often, you bring excitement back into playtime. Put away some toys for a few days or weeks.
Then, take them out again later. This keeps things fresh and new.
Choose toys that stimulate your dog’s mind as well as their body. Interactive toys are great for this purpose. They can challenge your pet while providing fun moments together. These activities help reduce boredom and stress, which is good for dogs dealing with separation anxiety while you are away.
If you’re considering a temporary solution while you’re away, look into dog boarding in New Westminster options that prioritize comfort and care.
Explore Additional Care Options
You can hire a dog walker to take your dog for walks during the day. Dog daycare is also a great choice for socializing and fun while you are away.
Hire a Dog Walker: Schedule walks to break up their day.
A dog walker can help keep your pet happy. They will take your dog outside for walks. This gives them fresh air and exercise. A daily walk breaks up the long hours you’re away. Your dog avoids boredom, which can lead to anxiety.
Finding a reliable dog walker is key. Ask for recommendations from friends or check local listings. Look for someone who understands your dog’s needs. The right person makes a big difference in your dog’s comfort and happiness while you are gone.
Consider Dog Daycare: Provide socialization and activity while you’re away.
Dog daycare can be a great option for your pet. It offers socialization and playtime with other dogs while you are at work or away. Many dog daycares have trained staff who ensure the safety of all pets.
They provide fun activities that keep dogs engaged and active throughout the day.
Your dog will feel less lonely in this environment. They make new friends and can enjoy group play sessions. This helps reduce stress and separation anxiety when you leave home. Dog daycare also gives them mental stimulation that keeps their minds sharp. Incorporating dog comfort strategies, such as familiar scents or calming music, can further ease your dog’s anxiety during your absence.
Look into local centers to find a suitable place for your furry friend before considering other care options like hiring a dog walker or pet sitter.
Conclusion
Making your dog feel at home while you are away is key. Keep their space cozy and familiar. Offer fun toys to keep them busy and happy. Hiring a pet sitter or walker can help too. With these tips, you can ease their stress and build trust while you’re gone.
