Dog Separation Anxiety and Behavior Modification Training

Dog separation anxiety is one of the most common problems dog owners face.  Dogs develop separation anxiety for many different reasons.  Some of the most common reasons are lack of exercise, a traumatic event, or a sudden change in schedule. Dog separation anxiety symptoms are expressed in a various ways

There are plenty of different symptoms.  Mild symptoms include changes in body language and whining.  Dogs with severe separation anxiety may wreck furnishings or injure themselves.  The majority of cases of dog anxiety can be resolved using behavior modification exercises.

What is Behavior Modification Training

Behavior Modification is a type of dog training that is used to replace on type of behavior with another.  one example, Pretend your dog pulls at the end of the leash when you walk him, you can teach him to heel using obedience (the heel command), or you can teach him to walk by your side by rewarding correct behavior (heeling next to you), and correcting or ignoring bad behavior (the pulling).  A major benefit about changing your dogs behavior through training is that they will act appropriately even when you are not around.

There are a number of great drills for dogs with separation anxiety.  I highly recommend desensitization exercises. As you get ready to leave your home, you may observe your dog showing signs of anxiety.  Your dogs understands your routine before you go by the things you do before you are gone.  When your dog has determined you will go somewhere when you put on your coat, just put on your coat more often.  Throughout the day, you can put on your coat, and pick up your keys, then walk to the door.  When you get there, turn around and go back to what you were doing.  What you are doing is removing your dogs association with you leaving to the you putting on your coat. It can take some effort, but the effort is worthwhile.  Once you have completed a number of desensitization drills, your dog will be calm and happy when you leave.

Separation anxiety won’t go away on it’s own and can become a serious problem.  In fact , it often gets much worse.  Don’t delay treatment until your dog hurts themselves, or wrecks your property!  If you want to learn the secrets of behavior modification training, and how to cure canine separation anxiety, visit http://www.dogseparationanxietyhelp.com.