One Common Separation Anxiety Trick Could Be Making Your Dog More Stressed
Summary
A dog owner used a worn T-shirt with her scent to comfort her puppy, Lady, during alone time. However, a dog trainer says comfort items only help if dogs associate them with positive feelings and calm, and owners should also teach dogs to relax and be independent in other ways.Key Facts
- Leaving a shirt with an owner’s scent is a common trick to help dogs with separation anxiety.
- Dogs don’t find comfort from the object itself, but from the feelings they connect to it.
- If a comfort item is only given when the owner leaves, it might signal stress instead of comfort.
- The trainer recommends teaching dogs to relax calmly and build independence before long separations.
- Creating a positive, secure space with toys and blankets can help dogs adjust to being alone.
- Comfort items work best as part of a bigger plan that helps dogs feel safe and relaxed on their own.
- Training calm behavior in a dog should happen regularly, not just when the owner plans to leave.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
