Top Tips From Dog Behaviour Experts at D.A.P.®
Aside from being a problem for your neighbours and distressing for you, excessive vocalisation is frequently a sign that your dog is suffering from a high level of anxiety. This may be heightened by the removal of a usual source of comfort and reassurance; you.
This ‘separation-related’ vocalisation is typically accompanied by house soiling and destructive behaviour, but in some cases dogs may hyperventilate, vomit, salivate or have diarrhoea.1
Commonly puppies show similar anxiety related vocalisations following separation from their mum and littermates. Just like a new baby, it is not unknown for puppies to keep their owners awake night after night while they adapt to sleeping alone.
Anxiety related behaviour problems are extremely common and is the second most common cause of referral to a behaviour counselor after aggression.2 However, there are some things you can do to help;
On leaving the dog /puppy alone:
* Confine the dog to a small area. This will help reinforce the feeling of security and reduce destructive behaviour
* Do not fuss or give your dog any added attention before you leave. Sudden isolation after lots of fuss is confusing and worrying for your dog
* Leave lots of chewable toys or treats to keep him occupied
* Plug a D.A.P. ® Diffuser in the room with the dog. D.A.P. ® is a synthetic copy of the canine appeasing pheromone, clinically proven to comfort and reassure puppies and adult dogs. Importantly, D.A.P.® can also help dramatically reduce vocalisation when a dog is left alone, both during the day and at night1
* Leave the radio on. A human voice is known to comfort some dogs
* Try not to leave your dog for long periods, but if you have to, make sure you take the dog for a walk before you go out
On returning:
* Briefly greet the dog without too much excitement
* Reward only once the dog has settled down
* Do not punish the dog if he has been naughty, he will not understand
Finally, it is always advisable to talk to your vet. Your vet will check for any physiological problems which may be to blame and/or refer you to an animal behaviourist, who will be able to suggest a suitable behavioural modification programme.
For more information on D.A.P.® and/or problem barking please call CEVA Animal Health on 01494 781510.
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