Encourage Independence Practice Separation et up a comfortable Leave your dog pace where your home alone for short dog can go for periods at first and some quiet and gradually increase relaxing time alone. the time you're away. Rethink Your Exit Strategy Give your dog a treat or a favorite toy when you leave. This will create a more positive association with your departure. Reward Calm Behavior Don't fuss over your pup when you get home. You want to convey that it was "no big deal" that you were away. Give your dog attention when he's calm. Mask Outside Noise If your dog is easily startled by outside sounds, soothing music or a white noise machine may help. Change of Scenery Hire a trusted dog walker to come for a midday visit to break up the day, or look into sending your pup to daycare.

1. Go for a hike together. 2. Set up an obstacle course in your backyard. 3. Teach your dog new tricks or commands. 4. Play a game of fetch at the park. 5. Have a doggy playdate with a friend's dog 6. Take your dog to the beach or a dog-friendly lake for a swim. 7. Go for a long walk or jog in a new neighborhood. 8. Try out a dog-friendly restaurant or café. 9. Set up a treasure hunt with treats hidden around the yard. 10. Have a picnic in the park with dog-friendly snacks. 11. Enroll your dog in an agility or obedience class. 12. Take your dog to a local pet-friendly event or festival. 13. Have a doggy spa day with a bath, grooming, and massage. 14. Go on a road trip together and explore new places. 15. Play hide-and-seek with your dog using treats or toys. 16. Have a canine movie night and cuddle up to watch a dog-themed film. 17. Play a game of tug-of-war or wrestle with your dog. 18. Go camping together and enjoy the outdoors. 19. Organize a playdate with other dog owners in your neighborhood. 20. Create an agility course in your backyard using household items.