Whether you work in an office during the day or just have errands to run, your dog will be faced with spending time alone. Making this part of your routine and avoiding long, drawn out goodbyes can help reduce separation anxiety. Create an environment where your dog knows they have everything they need and that you will be back.
Safety should be a top priority when your pet is home alone. Here are a few tips to prevent your dog from getting into trouble.
- Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Clean up around your house before you leave, making sure any potentially dangerous items are put away. Keep food pushed back on the countertops or closed in containers or cabinets where your dog can’t reach them. Tuck cords and cables away so they are not a tempting chew toy. Close the doors to certain rooms to keep your dog out or put up gates or barriers to keep them from accessing specific areas.
- Provide Distractions
Being bored in a quiet house can lead to trouble. Turn on the radio, a tv, or a sound machine to provide some background noise and keep your dog from barking at every little sound. It can also create an environment that mimics when you are home. If they frequently bark out the window, consider closing the blinds or curtains, or keeping them in an interior room.
Make sure your dog has their favorite toys nearby too. Consider using interactive toys such as ones where you hide treats, and your dog must figure out how to get them out. Or give them a bone to chew on, or a treat with peanut butter inside to lick out.
- Check In
If you know you’ll be gone most of the day, see if a friend, neighbor, or dog sitter can come check in on your pet and let them out. Or perhaps you can pop home on a break to make sure they’re okay. There are also home security systems that allow you to see inside your home. This can be helpful for seeing what your dog is up to while you’re away and making sure they’re safe.
- Crate Train Your Dog
Crates shouldn’t be viewed as a punishment. There are many dogs that feel safe in the close confines of a crate and will choose to spend time there when given the option. Leave the door open while you’re home so they can go in and out on their own. Crate train them to make it a positive experience while you’re away and have peace of mind that they’re not getting into trouble.
If you prefer your dog to have more freedom but are worried about what they’ll do while you’re not home, consider boarding them or sending them to doggie daycare. This can be helpful if you know you have some long days coming up or will be traveling overnight. Your dog can run, play, and socialize in a safe space while also having plenty of time to rest and relax. Contact Lake Wylie Pet Resort to schedule your dog’s next stay.