When the kids go back to school everything changes for your dog, too. The stress on mom, dad, and the kids, can be enormous. But rarely do we consider how the change in routine affects our canine companions. Many think "our dog is as much a part of the family as we are – he can handle it." The facts prove differently. Dogs are creatures of habit and when the routine changes they can be seriously affected. Below are the main areas of concern and tips that might help:
Separation Anxiety: A major issue that surfaces is that the family dog no longer has the kids to play with during the day. And, maybe he is left alone if mom and dad both work. The stress that accompanies being left alone can often result in destructive behaviors and endless barking. Complaints from neighbors increase significantly during this time of the year. Follow these tips to help reduce the stress of separation for your dog.
When you leave: As you and the family leave your home don't pamper the dog and nurture him by saying in a sweet voice something like, "Don't worry – we'll be home soon. Be a good boy". Dogs are pack animals and as such they expect their leader to be firm when they leave the pack. It is best to totally ignore your dog for about 10 minutes before you leave, and as you leave the house simply make a low "growl" with your voice. While this might sound peculiar, your dog will actually be relaxed by your voice. In the wild, the pack leader growls when she leaves the pack to indicate she will return soon and not to misbehave.
Boredom: Dogs sleep a great deal during the day. But, when they awake they want something to do. It doesn't take much to entertain a dog – even if you're not at home.
Boredom: Dogs sleep a great deal during the day. But, when they awake they want something to do. It doesn't take much to entertain a dog – even if you're not at home.
Follow these tips:
Scatter feed: Dogs are natural foragers. They love to look for food on the ground and will literally spend hours doing so. Before you and the kids leave the house, distribute dry food over a wide area of your back yard, (or other treats your dog likes). You might even try hiding some treats so your dog spends time looking for them. Also consider scattering vegetables, such as baby carrots. Also, be sure to provide lots of fresh clean water to keep you dog well hydrated.
Sandbox: Build a digging pit. Dogs love to dig, so rather than trying to eliminate that natural instinct, control where they dig by building them their own special place. Build a sandbox much as you would for a child and teach your dog that it belongs to him. Bury his favorite chew toy in the digging pit and when he digs it up praise him lavishly. Bury some treats, or pieces of cheese. When he finds them, pet him and tells him he's a "good boy". Very quickly he will learn where to dig – and, more importantly, where not to dig.
Toys: Dogs love toys. But, they quickly get bored with them, or they are destroyed. First, buy quality toys that your dog will always love. For example, the Buster Cube when filled with treats is a toy he will always love – and, it is virtually non-destructible. Second, rotate the toys. Use two toy boxes for his toys and rotate them every few days. This way he looks forward to his "new toys" when you leave.
Shelter: Dogs need to have their own "home". Just as we humans feel more at ease in our home, so do dogs. If your dog doesn't have a place of his own create one for him. Adopted From http://www.happycleanandsmart.com/
