Dog Separation Anxiety Solutions

In this presentation, we will be reviewing the Top 10 List of what is involved with treating separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can be a complex issue. This presentation will review the key elements of a separation anxiety protocol; however, it should be known that more information will be needed in order to resolve the issue. This is simply an overview of where to begin.

The Top 10 list includes the various fundamentals that are required when working with separation anxiety.

Dogs that are experiencing this panic condition are suffering when left alone and it is important that we realize this is a welfare issue for them, and oftentimes for the guardians as well.

When working with a separation anxiety dog, it is imperative that clients do not leave the dog alone for longer than he can handle during training. We will discuss this in detail as it is a crucial component of any separation anxiety protocol.

One of the most commonly given pieces of advice about separation anxiety training is to use interactive feeding toys when leaving the dog along. We will explore this and establish whether this is a useful direction to proceed.

In addition to feeding toy use, it is often stated that a crate or other confinement area is required. In separation anxiety training, this is not always the ideal path to take and that will be reviewed in this presentation.

When working with a separation anxiety dog there is a tremendously important aspect to consider. The dog must be kept beneath their panic point in order for the training to be successful. We call this panic point the dog’s threshold and reviewing this often complex definition will be essential in order to proceed.

Technology has played a critical role in separation anxiety training and its use is significant in order to observe the dog when alone.

Qualified separation anxiety trainers in the field are available in order to help guardians proceed with a protocol in a gradual and systematic fashion. Their support is invaluable.

Working with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist during a separation anxiety protocol can play a major role in supporting the process.

Occasional setbacks or regressions are normal during separation anxiety training. It is oftentimes two steps forward, three steps back and that pattern is exactly what is needed for most dogs to be successful. Don’t panic at these setbacks, but rather celebrate them as a stepping stone to further learning.

The most common question that we are asked about separation anxiety is “how long will it take to resolve”? The answer to this question will be discussed in detail.

If you take nothing else away from this presentation, it is important for you to know that separation anxiety is fixable. The fundamental methodology to achieve success is reviewed in this video and you should know that this overview can help you to get on your way to achieving alone-time success with your dog.

Watch the Video Trailer with Sample Clips:

    Guest Instructor:  Malena DeMartini Price