The first step you need to take to decode your dog's separation anxiety

Before any sort of separation anxiety training can start with your dog there's one thing you need to do ...

Manage absences!

What does this mean? It's impossible. I can't not leave my dog alone for the rest of its life!!

Well actually, you can ... but just while training is ongoing!

Managing our absences is a way to keep our dogs going into a panic state - that's the very thing we want to avoid because every time they go into a panic it only serves to confirm their fears and make them just as bad, if not worse, the next time you walk out the door.

So yes, it may seem unfeasible to do this but it's the very thing that will get your dog over his panic.

And while your dog is never alone, we start the process of gradual exposure therapy and desensitisation to your absences. And we do it ever so slowly and in such small increments your dog doesn't notice the time increases.

So what does managing your absences look like?

It can simply mean calling on friends or family to babysit your dog, whether at your house or at theirs. It could mean doggy daycare or a professional pet sitter. Or it could also entail undertaking some obedience training so your dog knows to be calm when out and about and you are able to take them with you eg cafes and restaurants.

And if it's not too hot and your dog can cope with it, it might mean taking them with you in the car whenever you have to go out. Of course, if your boss is open to it, maybe there's also the option to take them to work with you.

Yes, managing absences isn't easy but it can be done and in the long run it will speed up the training process so your dog can cope while home alone.