How to Train Your Dog to Stay Home Alone: Where to Start
Training a dog to stay home alone is not an easy process, but it is entirely doable.
The main thing is to do everything gradually, without haste and unnecessary pressure on the pet.
Start with short absences. The first time, leave your dog alone for 5-10 minutes, and give him a good walk and a meal before you leave.
Say goodbye calmly, without showing excessive emotion. When you return home, do not pay too much attention to her. Gradually increase the time of absence to 30-60 minutes.
It is very important that the dog has enough toys and activities at home.
Leave her with extended feeders and puzzle toys. Play quiet, calm music.
Make sure there are no dangerous objects in your home that your dog can reach.
Keep fragile and valuable items out of her reach. Close windows and balconies to prevent her from jumping out.
Keep her in a confined space, such as a bathroom or small cage, for a while.
This will make it easier to accustom him to loneliness. Gradually expand the space.
Once the dog learns to calmly stay at home for an hour or an hour and a half, you can try leaving it for longer periods of time.
The main thing is not to rush things. If the dog is sad and barks loudly, then you need to step back a little in training.
When you are away, be sure to leave bowls of water for your dog. If the dog is left at home for more than 4 hours, leave the opportunity to go to the toilet.
Praise your pet when you return home only if it is calm. Do not reinforce anxious behavior. Over time, the dog will get used to being alone.
In addition to gradual training, there are several additional ways to help your dog cope with loneliness:
1. Leave the TV or radio on - the sounds will help her feel the presence of people.
2. Leave an object with your scent nearby - a shirt, a toy, etc.
3. When you are away, ask someone to visit the dog - take it for a walk or just play with it.
4. Use calming pheromones - special diffusers or collars.
5. Train the command "Wait!" - the dog should lie quietly in place in your absence.
6. Do not punish your dog for misbehavior after you return home - punishments are only effective at the time of unwanted behavior.
7. Get your pet used to the cage - gradually this place will become a safe haven for him.
With time and patience, your dog will learn to be comfortable staying home alone!
Earlier we talked about how to brush a dog.
