And what I’d recommend instead!

Pop then in a crate and they’ll be fine

I have never introduced a crate to help a dog overcome their fear of being home alone. If a dog’s fave’s safe place is a crate then sure, we used it as part of the routine (usually leaving it open for the dog to go in and out when needed). But in my experience, crates generally make things worse/ heighten the anxiety. What I do instead, is to work around the dog’s chosen cozy safe place, and make that happen for them.

Your dog just needs more exercise.

You can have a physically tired dog who is still terrified of being alone. Don’t get me wrong, making sure your dog’s physical and mental needs are met is important. But no amount of long walks, running or trying to ‘tire them out’ will teach a dog who is scared of being alone that they are safe.

Instead, make sure your individual dog’s needs are met, without exhausting or overstimulating them, as a part of the overall separation training routine.

Distract them with food and sneak out.

I’ve had clients come to me for help after they’ve tried this, as their dog eventually started to panic whenever food was present, thinking it means their person would leave.

And no sneaking around and leaving your dog eventually more panicked once they can’t find you anywhere. We don’t want your dog not to notice you leaving. We want them to notice and feel safe anyway via establishing a routine that works for your dog with the duration increases tailored to what your dog can handle!

Don’t let your dog to get too attached to you

A close bond with you doesn’t cause separation anxiety. Neither does allowing your dog to sleep in your bed or follow you into the bathroom. It’s actually the total opposite. You should build a strong secure bond with your dog, strengthen their confidence, make them feel safe and loved.

After all, we’re not trying to teach your dog that they need you less. We’re teaching them that they can feel safe when you’re not there.