Think about your dog like the animal that he is and not a little human. He is wired to survive. Humans used to be a little more primal (and certainly so did dogs), but we have evolved over time to override our instincts to function better in the modern world. Our dogs, too, have evolved, but they are still dogs. They still tend toward certain characteristics that nature has given them to help them thrive in the wild.
Wild canids have environmental enrichment in the form of prey to follow and chase and a tapestry of sights and sounds in the natural world. They have family groups to provide diversion and safety in numbers. When they are alone, it is dull at best and threatening at worst.
Bored dogs can turn to trouble-making, but it can help to provide “engineered enrichment”. There are a variety of enrichment toys available today and you can even build your own. You can hide toys and treats in secret locations for your dog to seek and find. There are mechanical fetching machines and puzzle toys where the dog has to figure out how to reach the treat. You can stuff a hollow chew toy with canned dog food and freeze it for hours of fun licking.
Some stressed dogs may seek to self-soothe through chewing, foraging or trying to dig. Dogs with true anxiety reactions can even injure themselves. If your dog’s behavior when you are away becomes dangerous to him (or even to your bond with him), please seek medical assistance. There is real help and your veterinarian can start you on the right path.
Although going to work or the store is innocuous to you, your dog may disagree. Some dogs are completely at ease with the owners away and may seek mischief as entertainment, but some dogs are acting out from the stress of being alone. If you are not sure about which reason explains your dog’s behavior, ask your vet. In either case, making your dog’s time alone more busy and fun is always a good idea.
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Does your dog become stressed when you’re not home? The “When You’re Away” Comfort Cuddler can help soothe your dog in your absence!
