Anxious Dogs: Helping Pets Adjust When You Return To The Office

All dog parents agree that their dogs are not just their pets but a vital part of their families. They are social creatures and crave companionship. So, it can be very disturbing when your dogs become anxious and display signs of suffering and anxiety.

Many dogs become scared and find it difficult to stay alone and cope with the isolation. When they are left alone, they are prone to develop separation anxiety.

How to deal with anxious dogs

Here are some ways that may address the anxious behaviour in dogs.

You must establish a daily routine for your four-legged companion. Follow an easy but strict routine that includes regular mealtime, potty time, walk time, and even scheduled playtime. 

Your furry friend will understand when they will get attention from their owners and when not. This will help them to spend the remaining time for a nap and playing with their favourite toys. This will drastically reduce anxiety and keep your dog calm.

Before you leave the house, you must ensure that your dog’s basic requirements are well taken care of. Ensure to take care of the following things before you go to the office:

• Feed your dog before you leave. Dogs become satisfied when they are full.
• Give your dog chew toys and other activities. This will distract them and keep them entertained and busy while they are alone.
• You must provide a secure area to relax for your dog. The area or surface for your dog’s relaxation can be a mat, crate, or bed.
• Keep the dangerous things out of the reach of your dog.

The dogs that are usually glued to their owners are more prone to develop separation anxiety. It makes the dog highly dependent and they try to follow you everywhere. When the owner leaves their dogs alone, they develop anxiety. Discourage your dog to follow you all the time and train them to stay in a room while you are in another room.

Before you leave for work, you must ensure that your dog gets enough exercise and physical activity. Physical and mental stimulation can ease out your dog's  anxiety. It will tire them out so they will sleep while you are gone.

You can meet their exercise requirements by taking them out for a long walk, playing fetch game, backyard agility, or giving them interactive toys.

One of the common mistakes that pet parents make is to make their puppy’s bedtime a big deal. Don’t make your departure or arrival a big deal in front of your dog.  Avoid saying emotional goodbyes and try to have a low-key departure and arrival so that your furry friend doesn’t become very anxious.

Natural supplements, like CBD oil, are a great way to relieve anxiety and calm your dog's nerves. They are natural and don't have any side effects. Other than keeping your anxious dog calm, these supplements also have other health benefits.

Stay in touch with your dog when you are away by arming yourself with the right equipment. Pet cameras offer not only the possibility to soothe your fur buddy, but also tracks their behaviour and minimises their loneliness.

If you are a new dog parent, take help from a qualified vet. If your dog's anxious behaviour becomes severe, consider hiring a dog behaviourist. A professional dog behaviourist will help you to figure out the best ways to deal with your anxious dog.

Pet parent tip: Never punish your dog for showing anxious or undesirable behaviour. It will further damage their temperament.

Final thoughts 

Dogs respond very well to positive reinforcement techniques. All you need to do is to be kind, consistently firm, and patient with your dog but not harsh. He will learn to stay calm. Also, keep in mind that the more relaxed you are, the calmer your dog will feel. Your dog can pick up on your energy, which can heighten their anxiety. 

It is important to dedicate quality time to your little furry buddy and ensure that their needs are being met. This will help them to become well-rounded and socially healthy dogs. 

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