Dog Trainer Explains How Pet Parents Unknowingly ‘Create’ Anxious Dogs
Do you have an anxious dog at home? Is it possible that you created the problem? According to professional dog trainer Elijah Boateng, your actions could be why your dog is anxious, and it's pretty eye-opening. At the beginning of September, he shared a video explaining what he means by you being your dog's problem, and his reasoning might surprise you.
In the video's caption, Elijah tries to be very clear that the video is a spoof on doing all of the wrong things. He even says that if you don't want an anxious dog, do the exact opposite of what he does in the video! He covers leaving your dog and coming home to them, acknowledging them anytime they're near you, and even crating. He's basically explaining how to create separation anxiety in your dog, something none of us want to do.
Everything he said makes a lot of sense! If you're constantly giving your dog your undivided attention, of course they will think that they were the center of your world (even if they are!) Doing all of the things he mentioned gives your dog the impression that you are there to serve them and I can see the point Elijah is trying to make...though many completely disagreed.
@Munzfitness joked, "Bonus Tip: if you really want your dog to be chill and relaxed never look directly at them and only pet them once per day so that they really appreciate every time you pet them." @SpartanT joked, "Why do I have my dog if I can't do anything with it lol" @flowc shared, "I understand what you’re saying but dogs don’t live that long and IDK why all the advice for dog trainers is always “ignore your dog so it’ll be the little soldier you want for some reason”." @Santi had a great response, "Because immediate gratification does not help them know how to self-regulate. A dog with a calm nervous system is a happy one!"
Related: I Have Severe Separation Anxiety From My Dog & I Can't Be the Only One
Tips for Calming Anxious Dogs
If you have a dog at home, chances are just by looking at them you can tell when they're feeling anxious. There are signs; they may pin back their ears, lick their lips constantly, cower, and tuck their tail. They may whimper, bark, or even howl.
There are ways to calm them, and sometimes you are all that they need. But you can't be there with them 24/7, and they need to learn how to cope. Start by creating a calm, soothing space for them when you are away. Put on doggy TV (YouTube has some great videos that are hours long) or some classical music. Have plenty to keep them busy while you're away...maybe a long-lasting chew toy or puzzles that have treats for them when they figure them out. Another thing that can calm them is something that smells like you. Leave a t-shirt or a sock that you've worn with them to remind them of your scent. There are also calming aids and supplements that you can give an anxious dog.
If the problem is still consistently making it difficult for you to leave home without feeling guilty, consult a professional or your vet for additional advice or for professional training to help a dog learn how to settle and be comfortable when you're not around.
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