My pup sometimes get upset when I am away from her. Just wondering if anyone has some holistic tips to provide my pup with some relaxation.
Thunder shirt?
The best way to curb separation anxiety is to get to the root problem. When a dog thinks they are in charge of the home, anxiety increases. Imagine if I told you today, I have the deed to Honda, do you want it? Unrealistic hypothetical situation aside, I'm sure you would want the deed. After a few weeks of owning Honda, you would be stressed out of your face. Thats how the dog feels. He doesn't know why he's taking on stress, but he does because he needs to protect you. Another example is if you have kids and I put you in a closet and told you I would be back in a few hours, your kids are fine, we are just going to throw a little party. You would panic. You'd be kicking and screaming. The same goes for the dog...you have to form a relationship of trust with him. You have to show him that everything will be okay and he can just relax. The best way to show your pup this is through walks. Dogs are migratory animals so the walk is very important to them. Wherever you go, you need to lead him. Loose leashed walks are very important. When you enter a doorway, he should look at you and wait for you to cue him inside or outside. I would love to show you firsthand the difference this could make for you.
Practice entrances and exits with your pup. Leave the house, shut the door, then immediately come back in and resume what you were doing. Do things like putting on your jacket and shoes and grabbing your keys, then sit back down on the couch and stay there for a bit. Do this randomly a few times a day until your pup stops getting anxious. Then slowly extend the amount of time you spend outside before returning. Stay outside for 10 seconds. Then 15. Then 30, 1 min, 2 mins... make sure at each stage your dog is feeling calm when you come and go. Intersperse really short 'trips' with the longer ones.
I use music as a tool to help relax & relieve anxiety. Try pandora's "Zen" or "Liqid Mind" channels! This will put any wild beast to sleep or at least calm them down! I've used it for over a year now! Great for thunderstorm fright too! Also might try those "thunder shirts" my beagle/Jack Russell has responded positively to usage of one! It's like getting a hug or snuggle!
freeze peanut butter inside of a kong, and give to him/her as a treat when leaving. Can also stick a piece of clothing with your scent on it to help try to keep him/her calm while you are away.