| |
Helping Your Dog or Puppy Adjust to a
Change in Schedule
As the
beginning of the school calendar draws
near, many people’s schedules change.
Those who work in schools, as well as
parents, students and others, will have
a much different schedule than during
the lazy days of summer. Other times of
year may also cause significant changes
in schedule, such as a new job or other
lifestyle adjustment.
A significant change in schedule can be
a big adjustment for dogs or puppies.
Some pets may develop separation anxiety
from suddenly being home alone for
longer periods of time. Others may
experience housebreaking accidents,
chewing problems, and more.
There are many steps you can take to
train your dog or puppy to adjust.
Following, is a list of things you can
do ahead of time to help your dog adapt:
Personally leash walk your dog to a
designated area to do his business. This
will help your dog to quickly identify
when it’s time to “go”, and will provide
your pet with some attention and
exercise. For a complete guide to
teaching your dog to use a designated
bathroom area, check out the book
"Everything You Need to Know About House
Training Puppies & Adult Dogs".
If your dog has had very frequent access
to go outside, cut down on that freedom
little by little in advance. This will
help your dog or puppy to build up the
needed muscle control to last for longer
periods of time between walks without
housebreaking accidents.
Teach your dog or puppy to sometimes be
independent from you. Discourage him
from following you around constantly
like a shadow. Instead, train your dog
to remain in a down/stay position while
you move freely around your home. This
may keep separation anxiety problems
from developing.
Leave your dog or puppy home alone for
periods of time starting now. Optimally,
you’ll want to gradually build up to the
full time you’ll be out with your new
schedule.
Don’t make a big deal about leaving or
returning home. If you act apologetic
about leaving, it can make your dog more
anxious. Instead, act as if your coming
and going is perfectly normal (which it
is).
Use your dog’s crate. Particularly if
you have a puppy or an adult dog who
sometimes chews or gets into mischief.
If your dog damages things while you’re
out, such behaviors are far more likely
to become habits. Crate training is for
your dog’s safety, your furnishing’s
safety, and your own peace of mind. More
info on crates, recommended ones, and
great prices.
Practice obedience commands with your
pet. By providing leadership, your dog
is likely to be a much more
well-adjusted pet who adapts well to
your household’s lifestyle.
By following the tips outlined above,
you should be able to prevent problems
from developing. Be sure to click on the
highlighted links throughout this
article to read additional Free Dog
Training Info articles. If you need
additional help, consider contacting an
educated, knowledgeable dog trainer.
Article written by Lori Verni
|
|
|
|
|
