Imagine yourself in your dog’s paws. Dogs are social animals. As such, they need companionship and activity.
Could you imagine if you had to stay within the confines of the same four walls day after day with little activity? You may go bonkers. The same holds true for dogs. Boredom and confinement within the boundaries of a house and backyard can lead to behavioral issues such as anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, ADHD, panic attacks, the list goes on. The impact of such experience on dogs depends on the breed in question but can also include slow learning, aggression, overeating, undereating, destructive behaviors and hyperactivity. To make sure you offer your best friend the very best, please consider the following:
- When leaving your home, offer your dog a word of encouragement along with a toy or a bone to chew on.
- Play tapes of your normal household sounds, calming music or talk radio. Any sound is preferable to silence.
- Unless your dog is prone to becoming distraught at the sight of a squirrel or has issues with excessive barking, always offer your dog a room with a view. Its their form of doggy tv.
- If you use a crate, leave the door open. Crates should be a place of solace, a snug den like atmosphere (keep in mind that dogs were originally den dwellers). A crate should contain a comfortable bed and be roomy enough to allow your dog to stand up and turn in complete circles with space to spare. Never, ever force a dog to enter into a crate. Your dog should be able to walk willingly into their den. A treat can always help lure them in.
- Although you will be excited to return home to your pet, try and remain calm. By all means say hello to your pets, but remain low key. It is important that your dog does not associate your coming and going as an emotional roller coaster ride.
- If your dog does not suffer from motion sickness or anxiety induced by travel, take advantage of any opportunity to take your dog places with you (There are many Yappy Hours now being offered and just as many restaurants and stores now allow pets, certain beaches, parks, and many big dogs love hiking).
- If you have only one dog, consider adding another family member (save a life, visit www.petfinder.com for a review of local dogs in desperate need of a loving home). Companionship of another dog offers entertainment, comfort and teaches your dog etiquette.
- A dog that eliminates in the home only when the owner is away most likely suffers from separation anxiety. Frequent urination could spell signs of a medical condition, perhaps diabetes, cystitis, or a kidney problem. Talk to your vet. A simple blood test will make the final determination.
- Install a doggy door so that Fido can go outside when nature calls. This will prevent your dog from being subjected to holding it in until you come home. It will also provide your dog with freedom.
- Always spay/neuter your dog for a calm well rounded pet.
- Last but not least, consider doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter to visit your pets at lunch time for some TLC, a walk, and some active playtime.
Walking your dog twice a day for at least 30 minutes each time is critical. Its good for your psyche, your hips and its just as beneficial for your dog. So what are you waiting for? The fresh air and a happy, grateful dog awaits you!
Photo Credit: Sids 1
