I chose this title and topic since Halloween is just around the corner. Seriously though, most owners mean the best for their pets but inadvertently cause behavior issues. Here is a list of some things that bring on separation anxiety in dogs:
Petting your dog constantly. This does not soothe your dog and only creates his need for your undivided attention. A mother dog will cuddle, lick, and soothe her pup for a bit and if the pup persists when she stops, a harsh correction by the mom follows.
Talking to your dog all the time. The dog will end up tuning you out at a time you really need him to listen. When your talking stops as you walk away to use the bathroom, he becomes anxious.
Allowing your dog to follow you everywhere. Dogs need to learn to calm down and have some time alone. If you permit the continual following, should you have to be gone, your dog will be extremely stressed.
Allow your dog to be on your lap every time you sit down. This creates an unhealthy dependence. Reserve cuddle time as a reward following a period of good behavior, and limit the length of cuddle time. If my dog was a good girl and rested on her rug for the duration of my 2-hr movie, I may invite her on the sofa for a few minutes of chin scratching and pets.
Let your dog out of the crate every time it whines or barks for a moment. This just teaches your dog that it can pitch a fit and you will rescue it should he not like whatever you are asking him to do.
Allow your dog to demand affection or interaction. If you look at, touch, or speak to your dog after her has pawed your for attention, you have just reinforced the bad behavior.
By doing the things mentioned above, the dog will become more anxious and stressed when you stop doting on it for even a short time. If I have had my dog on the sofa with me for a few minutes getting attention, I then tell my dog "Off!" and say "Yes, Good girl" then I get up and matter-of-factly, leave the room. Crate training is very helpful in teaching your dog to feel calm and secure. For other ideas on how to raise a secure dog, see my previous post to teaching your dog to relax. Happy training!
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