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Generally, dogs are really good at stress management. Barking,
chewing, and destructive behaviors are all excellent ways
of dissipating excess energy brought on by stress. If you
can decrease your dog's stress, then you will eliminate these
types of behaviors. So let Petland answer the two questions
you're asking right now. Why is my dog stressed? And how do
I decrease it?
First, understand that dogs are creatures of habit. They
thrive on routine, consistency, and predictable patterns.
When routines and behavior patterns are interrupted or worse,
non-existent, your dog will begin exhibiting signs of stress.
Actually, this is an interesting survival mechanism many animals,
including us two-legged ones, have to ensure that we will
try new behaviors when faced with changing conditions. In
other words, it's the behavioral component of adaptation.
Therefore, the key is to do everything, every day exactly
the same way without variation or interruption. What's that?
Your life doesn't work that way? Then you should try these
tips from Petland:
1. Try to put a precise schedule to everything you do with
your dog on a daily basis. Feeding, walking, potty breaks
and play sessions should be as consistent as possible.
2. Try to leave your dog alone at the same approximate times
each day. On weekends, you should try to keep up your dog's
weekday schedule.
3. Invest in a quality pet crate or kennel unit to be used
whenever you leave your dog alone. A dog's crate should never
be used for punishment! Dogs learn to love their crates if
they are introduced to them properly and early in life. The
crate or "den" becomes a safe haven for your pet.
Denning or curling up in a small, safe place is a natural
canine instinct.
4. Make several select toys available to your dog only when
he's left alone. Pet product manufacturers are always coming
out with new pet toys designed to keep your pet occupied and
entertained.
5. You should never correct or punish your dog for behaviors
done in your absence. Dogs learn through immediate association
and delayed punishment will only increase stress.
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