It’s not uncommon for a dog to experience separation anxiety in their owner’s absence. Dogs are social by nature, and time away from their family can cause them significant stress. Fortunately, Constantine “Gus” Marnel of K-9 Communication understands the importance of having a dog who is healthy, happy, and stress-free.

With nearly 50 years of dog training experience in the Milford, Connecticut, area, Marnel offers a few behavioral tips to help ease your dog’s nervousness when left alone:

• Start Small: Instead of leaving your dog alone for hours at a time and hoping for the best, begin training on a smaller scale by leaving them alone for a few minutes at a time. Start at five minutes, then increase to 10, and so on. As you progress, your dog will get used to spending more time alone. Eventually, you will be able to leave your dog for a full eight hours.
• Walk Your Dog Before You Leave: Taking a brisk walk before departing will encourage a calm, submissive behavior. Once you return home from your walk, reward your pet with food and water.The idea is to leave your dog in resting mode in your absence. 
• Be Mindful of Your Behavior: Sometimes separation anxiety is a reaction to human behavior. If you’re feeling anxious, nervous, or guilty about going away, your dog will feel the same. Do your best to project confidence around your dog; a calm and assertive leader can ease anxious feelings. Try to say your goodbyes long before you leave, but don’t make a big deal about leaving your pet behind. When you don’t make a big fuss, it tells your dog that time apart is not a problem. Depending on the severity of your dog’s anxiety, you may have to practice leaving for small amounts of time until you’re both comfortable. 

Your furry friend doesn’t have to live with separation anxiety forever. For a free consultation, call K-9 Communication today at (203) 874-7299. To learn more about obedience training, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook and Google+.