Dogs are very social animals – they don’t often like to be alone and usually need plenty of human companionship. As families settle back into school and work routines following the summer holidays, some dogs may find the sudden change in household activity difficult to adjust to.
Sometimes, this can lead to separation anxiety or separation-related disorder which is a severe behavioural problem. Signs of separation anxiety include barking and whining, destructive behaviours, pacing, and trying to escape. If your dog is showing any of these signs, or you are concerned about their health or behaviour, it’s best that you speak to your vet first.
While some dogs adapt quickly to changes in routine, others may need a little extra support. From enrichment toys and calming products, to cosy beds and bedding, there are plenty of ways to help keep your dog comfortable and occupied while they’re home alone.
Set your dog up for success
As some dogs find sudden change stressful, try and gradually ease back into normal routines if you have had to change them over the summer months. Keep mealtimes, walks, playtime, and times for rest consistent. A good walk before you go out for the day can really help if they’ll struggle whilst you’re gone. With the darker weather on it’s way, don’t forget to stay visible on your dog walks with a Hem & Boo Flashing LED Collar.
Make sure your dog has a cosy resting area
If your dog tends to settle in a particular spot when left alone, providing them with a dedicated resting area can help them feel more comfortable and secure. Orthopaedic beds can be particularly beneficial for older dogs, while cosy donut-style beds may suit dogs that enjoy curling up while they rest.
Put the radio on for some background noise, make sure their food and water is close by, and give them a cosy bed to rest in whilst you’re gone – check out our full range of dog beds on the pet store.
Treat your dog to an enrichment feeder or interactive toy
Enrichment feeders can work well as they provide mental stimulation, reduce boredom, and can help to alleviate stress and anxiety when alone. Kong do a great range of toys that can be filled, and they even do an Extreme version which is a little tougher than the classic.
Another recommendation would be a LickiMat Classic Soother which has a raised pattern and is ideal for soft and liquid foods. You can even freeze it to make it last longer!
Interactive toys and puzzle games can help provide mental stimulation while your dog spends time alone. Rotating a selection of tots can help keep them engaging and give your dog something positive to focus on during the day. Some great examples are the Hide N' Slide Dog Puzzle and the Rosewood Lickin' Layers.
Remember that toys are not indestructible, and if you think your dog may be able to destroy and potentially ingest pieces of the toy whilst unsupervised, this may not be a safe option for them.
Use a pheromone product
There are lots of pheromone products for you to choose from – it all depends on what works best for your pet and your routines. Some dogs respond to one type of pheromone product, but not others, so it can be trial and error to see which one works.
Pet Remedy Calming Spray 200ml has a blend of essential oils that work alongside natural relaxation pathways in the brain to help calm anxious or stressed pets. Or, for round the clock calming, consider using a diffuser like the Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser which provides appeasing pheromones to help your dog feel reassured, calmer, and more relaxed.
You can also trial calming collars, supplements and chews. Browse the Dog Calming & Anxiety Relief section on the Pet Store for our full range of products.
Every dog is different, and finding the right combination of enrichment, comfort, and calming support may take a little trial and error. Explore the full range of beds, toys, feeders, and calming products available on the PDSA Pet Store to help your dog feel comfortable and settled when spending time alone.
