It’s important to keep in mind that the changes in routines due to the pandemic can be stressful for our animals.

Dogs can be anxious when they are separated from their family, especially if this is the first day they have spent without them since moving in with their family.

Here are some tips to help you manage your dog’s stress when you’re away from home. As always, you can ask your veterinarian for advice if you need any more information.

How to recognize an anxious dog

When animals are separated from their owners or family groups (or even another animal), they may exhibit signs of anxiety.

Behavioral reactions can include toileting unexpectedly in the home, destructiveness, or excessive barking. They may also dig, pace, pace, or try to escape.

How to manage anxiety

When you are not around, the goal of managing and treating anxiety is to teach your dog to relax and be calm.

You can achieve this by changing your routine for leaving and returning, teaching your dog to be calm and content when left alone, and making other changes in the environment.

Owners of pets should speak to their veterinarian about any issues. They may be able to help or refer them to a specialist in behavioral training who is based on humane rewards.

Returning and leaving

Making leaving the house less of a hassle is one of the best things you can do to make your dog feel more relaxed when you go out. These strategies include rewarding calm, relaxed behaviors and ignoring any attention-seeking behavior.

Try to ignore your dog for 15-30 minutes before you leave. When you return, greet them softly and calmly. Only interact with them when they are calm and quiet.

Is your dog anxious when you pick up your keys as you prepare to leave the house? Pick up your keys or do other things before leaving the home, like putting your shoes on, but ignore your dog and continue with your daily routine. You will teach your dog that picking up keys doesn’t always mean you are leaving the house.

Counterconditioning is another way to teach your pet a positive reaction to something that they previously disliked or feared. You could, for example, offer your dog Kong toys that are stuffed with healthy and delicious food. It will take the dog 20 to 30 minutes to eat.

Environmental changes

Give your dog something to do to help them relax. Exercise your dog before you leave to help them relax and tire. Also, take different routes so that your dog can experience new sights and scents.

You can also provide them with food, safe chewing items, or a Kong toy to keep them busy. Before you leave, make sure to play interactive games like tug-of-war.

Company

Of course, keeping your dog company with a human or a dog can also be an effective way to reduce anxiety. If you have friends or family who can keep your dog company, you might want to check if there’s a doggy daycare in your area. Or, you could ask if someone trustworthy would be willing to walk them during the day.