Every dog needs to learn to stay alone without being anxious or depressed. While some dogs might seem happy with the change, others might become distressed when separated from their owner. Around eight out of ten dogs find it difficult to cope with separation. They start showing obvious signs that they are missing their owners.
What to do in such situations? Contact professional dog trainers for dog training in Rossendale. They will help to train your dog on separation-related behaviour.
How to Train Your Dog to be Alone?
Start With Short Separations
The trainers begin the process with short periods of separation. They ask the owners to leave the dog in a designated room for 30 minutes or less. During this period, the dog’s behaviour is monitored. When the anxiety level is controlled, the time period is increased.
Use Positive Reinforcements
Making the dog realise they will get positive reinforcement for staying alone will help make the job easier. Reward the dog if it behaves properly and stays calm during the separation period.
Keep Monitoring the Behaviour
If you’re practising this drill in a particular room, install a camera to monitor the dog’s behaviour while you’re away from him. Are they barking continuously? Is there hidden stress in the behaviour of the dog? Then there are underlying problems with the dog. Call the trainer immediately for further training.
Maintain a Consistent Training Schedule
Do you practice leaving the dog alone every day? If not, the dog might not get used to the drill. Be consistent with the training schedule and build positive reinforcement over time. Consistency is the key to success. When you consistently make the keepaway from you, the dog gradually builds up the behaviour.
Teach Your Dog To Be Alone – What Professional Trainers Say?
According to the trainers, following a few tips will make the training process easier. To make your dog comfortable when left alone, follow a few ways you can do that:
- Build a kennel for them and make them spend time there so that they can start living alone.
- Get a comfortable bed for them to be cosy in their room.
- Teach the dog to settle down calmly when you are busy with work.
- Do not give them unnecessary attention all the time, as this will make them more attached to you.
- Give them toys and train them to play properly so they do not get bored.
- Leave them with food and treats to help them stay happy when you’re away.
- Start making them aware that you’re about to leave the house a few hours before you leave.
- Avoid punishing them, as this can make them anxious and stressed and cause them to behave rudely with you.
Are you looking for a professional dog trainer? Contact K9 Boot Camp for experienced trainers and behaviourists who can help you train your dog to leave alone without separation anxiety. Contact us for more information.