Dogs, much like their human counterparts, have strong emotional connections to their family. Dogs often feel scared or anxious when separated from their owners, even for just a short time. Soothing a lonely dog isn’t difficult and will distract the dog until his owner returns.
Step 1
Ask the owner to exit quietly when dropping off the dog. Dogs are very sensitive and pick up on a number of voice and body cues, and the more fuss you make over the dog, the more likely she is to be upset.
Step 2
Feed the dog a small amount of her regular dog food. Eating gives the dog a feeling of comfort and distracts her from missing her owner.
Step 3
Take the dog for a long walk. Walking burns off excess energy, and allows the dog to sniff and explore unfamiliar territory. If it’s too cold to take the dog on a walk, a trip to the pet store is an excellent distraction.
Step 4
Give the dog a new toy. Engage in a game of fetch or tug-of-war to keep the dog busy and prevent her from pacing and looking for her owner. Treat-filled toys are particularly helpful in distracting a lonely dog.
Step 5
Present the dog with an article of clothing worn by her owner. Dogs have particularly powerful noses, and worn clothing carries her owner’s scent for a very long time. The dog will relax and be comforted by the familiar smell of her owner.
References
Tips
- Herbal calming supplements are useful for dogs with separation anxiety. Consult with your veterinarian before administering any medication to the dog.
Warnings
- Never punish a dog for anxious behavior. She is upset and should not be punished for being afraid.
Writer Bio
Louise Lawson has been a published author and editor for more than 10 years. Lawson specializes in pet and food-related articles, utilizing her 15 years as a sous chef and as a dog breeder, handler and trainer to produce pieces for online and print publications.