Thanks Clare.
There was a programme on TV recently about this and it is know as seperation syndrome. Have a look here.
http://www.cesarsway.com/tips/dogtraining/Dealing-with-Separation-Anxiety-by-Martin-Deeley
that's the treats you see - he's denying himself treats until you come back.
POOR Hugo (say that and see how he preens!)
I know :D
You are such a softie, ha.
Actually I bought Hugo a Kong for just this purpose (ie keep him too busy to chew/get worried while I popped out). Even if I put all his favourites in it, he will completely ignore it until I come back - then he'll start playing with it. Stubborn, I tell you, stubborn.
By the way Paul, what is your opinion on ignoring them before going out and when coming back?
Thank you all for the replies, lots of cotroversy about ignoring or not. I know one thing; it's blooming hard to ignore her, she's such a cutie pie.
Thanks Melissa I'll go take a look.
Thank you Paul, also got that usggestion in a private message from someone about random times and trying for longer periods etc.
Thanks James, we do have one and we are going to re-introduce it for night time too.
excellent advice.
If you can get this on your computer in France it is worth watching as they follow left alone dogs with hidden cameras and then suggest ways to get them used to you leaving them.
http://www.channel4.com/programmes/dogs-their-secret-lives/4od
that's the phrase I couldn't find last night - separation anxiety! You have to bear in mind that when you bring another person - whether of the 2 or 4 legged variety - into your household they become dépendent on you - not just for food but for the whole security of routine etc. My wife even tells the animals when she's going to the loo - just so they know...
You might want to try using a crate, Hector loves his. Like a safe haven rather than confinement.
Separation anxiety . Try giving her something like a Kong dog toy full of food. We use raw ‘Nutriment’ . Use part of her daily ration. The licking releases calming hormones ( can’t think of the name right now) . By the time she has finished, hopefully she’ll have relaxed… Mine are fed this way every meal, no bowls.
Also try Natalie, going out for literally 5 seconds then back in, then 20, 30, back to 5 then longer then short, etc etc. build up the time of separation slowly but surely.
Hope this helps.
I agree with David - it is a very old fashioned idea to "ignore the dog" - it is far more sensible to great them as calmly as possible and help them to calm down. Separation anxiety is quite common with dogs as they have evolved to really value human company. If you check out youtube you will find loads of positive approaches to dealing with this sort of problem. I'd suggest checking out "kikopup" (Emily Larkham), Zak George, and other force free trainers as they have great advice on addressing issues.
Whoever said that is an idiot. Would you do that with children?
Funny thing is I've been told to ignore them before going out and when coming bakc. Very difficult when she's showing so much affection.
praps he may die. My nephew and I don't have such opportunities as when *wife again) was taking a little girl to bed and said to her "do you want a tuck you up story?" yes please !
so she told them Bedd Gelert