Tilly Talks – separation anxiety Our very own Tilly Saunders has been training dogs for over 4 years and is highly experienced in dog training and socialisation! In the piece below, Tilly shares in her own words, how to help your dog with separation anxiety … What exactly is separation anxiety? Dogs with separation anxiety may display behaviours such as, barking, howling, whining, chewing/scratching at things, destructive behaviours, toileting in the home and pacing when left or separated from their owner. Owners often notice their dogs will seem ‘upset/ sulky’ before they leave and can be over excited on their return. Key points to note if you’re concerned your dog struggles with separation anxiety are: Give your dog time to adjust, especially if they are a new rescue dog or puppy in your home. Your dog sees you as their world, so it is important to teach them to be comfortable with some separation from us, on the odd occasion. Struggling being left: panting/pacing when you put your shoes or coat on, crying and whining when you are leaving them in a room. Desensitising your dog to these things individually will help you change the way your dog thinks about you leaving them. You can find, that in a home there is one person that typically takes the majority of responsibility for caring for the dog. This main carer will feed, walk, and train the dog. But this can potentially cause attachment issues, which will make the likelihood of issues arising when left, higher. Being aware of who does what in the house will help you, help your dog and prevent any attachment or separation issues developing. Many owners are unsure as how to deal with the issue, it is my advice that if you feel like your dog has some, or all of the ‘symptoms’ of separation anxiety then please see a qualified and reputable behaviourist to help you tackle these issues first hand and help your dog be more comfortable at home. If you would like some advice from our Jerry Green Dog Rescue Enterprise Trainer, Rachel, please contact: Rachel: 07464 490201 / [email protected]