Are you preparing to transition back to the office after working remotely for a few months? If the answer is yes, your dog may have grown attached to you being home every day. They may develop separation anxiety when you head back to work, especially after being showered with love and attention all day.
First, keep an eye out for signs of anxiety in your dog. These include:
- whining or crying when you leave
- destroying furniture/carpet or other household items when left alone
- shivering even if it’s not cold or panting even if it’s not hot
- chewing their own paws out of nervousness
If you notice any of these symptoms, there are a variety of tools and products that can help. We hope these tips help make the transition a bit easier for your furry family members (and you)!
Start Preparing Your Dog Before You Go Back to Work
If you can, leave for short periods of time and gradually make each trip out of the house longer to help them transition to being alone. Don’t make a big deal out of leaving. For example, saying bye in a high-pitched voice can make your dog’s anxiety level increase.
We also recommend taking your dog for a walk before you leave the house. This will help your dog associate you leaving with a positive and fun activity. It will also help tire them out so they sleep part of the time you are away. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog! 😊
If your dog isn’t crate trained, now would be the perfect time to start. A crate will become your dog’s safe space, providing them with security. You’ll also rest easy knowing they can’t get into something they can destroy or an item that could be harmful to them.
Get a Snuggle Puppy
Ok, so you’re on your way to the office for the first time in months. You’ve done your work getting your dog used to the idea of being alone, but it might not be enough. The Snuggle Puppy is a must-have product you can give to your dog to ease their separation anxiety while you’re away. It’s truly a friend and companion for your pup! The Snuggle Puppy comes with a heat pack and “real-feel” heartbeat that mimics the feeling of a littermate, helping to ease their loneliness and anxiety in an all-natural, medication-free way.
Keep them Occupied
Leaving your dog with an engaging toy while you are gone will help keep them busy and out of trouble. Their mind will be focused on the toy and not on the fact that they are alone. We recommend stuffing a KONG toy with peanut butter and freezing to keep them occupied for a longer period of time. The Outward Hound Puzzle game is also a toy you can give them. It has four layers of rotating discs that provide mental stimulation with a level 2 difficulty to increase the challenge. Your dog will be rewarded with a treat as the figure the puzzle out, enhancing their mood, and keeping them busy while you are gone.
We hope these tips help make the transition as easy as possible for your pup as your life transitions back to a normal routine. If you’re struggling not having your furry co-worker by your side (like many of us are) you may even want to consider bringing up the possibility of a pet-friendly work space. 😊
