Nick Jones MA, who has handled over 2,000 dog behaviour cases, warns that owners working remotely may unintentionally cause their pets to develop over-dependence. With more than a third of UK workers now working from home, this issue has become more prevalent since the pandemic.
Why homeworking affects dogs
Before COVID-19, only 4.7% of UK employees worked remotely. Now, many dogs are used to constant company, leading to potential behavioural challenges. A recent study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) highlights that dogs bought during the pandemic show higher rates of behavioural issues. Alarmingly, one-third of these dogs experience separation anxiety, which can lead to barking, household damage, and toileting indoors.
Nick explains, “While homeworking has many perks, it can lead to dogs developing separation anxiety. The pandemic and lockdowns have significantly changed the way dogs interact with their owners.”
Tips to manage your dog’s behaviour
Nick, with 20 years of experience in dog training, has partnered with ACME Whistles to help owners overcome these issues. He advises a few simple steps to prevent behavioural problems and separation anxiety.
- Gradual separation trips
Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods and slowly increase the duration. This helps them become comfortable with being on their own. Positive distractions, like a chew toy or a device filled with food, can create positive associations with alone time. - Introduce new friends
Let friends or family members care for your dog. The more people they socialise with, the more confident and less reliant on you they will become. Doggy daycare can also help by exposing them to other people and pets. - Prevent shadowing behaviours
Stop your dog from constantly following you around the house. Create regular breaks during the day where you and your dog are in separate rooms. This prevents over-attachment and teaches them independence. - Use long-lasting chews and toys
Distracting your dog with long-lasting chews or interactive toys like a Kong encourages them to focus on other activities. This helps avoid over-dependence on your company. - Calm greetings
When returning home, avoid making a fuss. Return calmly and go about your routine before acknowledging your dog. This teaches them that your return is not an exciting event, reducing anticipation and anxiety.
Nick stresses, “Following these steps can prevent your dog from developing destructive behaviours such as excessive howling or scratching.”
For more advice and resources, visit Nick’s website or check out his collaboration with ACME Whistles.
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