Won't Go Outside by Herself

Hi Deb,

Thanks for writing in.

Yes, it does sound like it is separation anxiety. Could you please tell me how old she was when you got her? Did you know much about her history? Also, what is her daily routine and how many people/other pets do you have in your household? Will give you advice once I hear back from you.

Awaiting your reply!

Regards,
Preethi

Hi Deb,

Thank you very much for that detailed reply. It makes my job a lot easier, I really appreciate the time and effort that went into your response.

Firstly, I would like to tell you that you and your husband are doing a great job with Leila! Keep it up It is good that you take time to walk and play with her (especially before you leave for work), a lot of owners lack in this department.

Coming back to the problem, it does sound like separation anxiety. I will list out things that you should start doing with her. It is great that she is still so young, it will be a lot easier to modify her behavior.

- To start with, focus on your departure and arrival routine and make the following changes.
-Desensitize her to the cues of your departure. These may include keys rattling, doors opening, lights being switched off, make-up being put on etc. To desensitize your dog to these cues, perform the appropriate action at random times without leaving after doing so. With time, Leila will learn not to associate this action with your leaving.
- On your return home make no attempt at rushing to greet her the minute you step in. This will only reinforce her anxiety when you are gone. Potter around the house for a few minutes, if she whines reassure her that you are coming and continue what you're doing with a positive attitude. Dogs are great readers of body language, so be calm and send her lots of positive reassuring vibes.
-If she is worked up and anxious do not make a big fuss over it.
- You could consider leaving the radio on while your gone and maybe give her a nice juicy bone to keep her occupied.
- You could also consider a Dog appeasing pheromone diffuser (DAP), they work wonders when it comes to keeping dogs calm. Please check with your local veterinarian about this.

Now, as for your problem getting her outside alone, doing something as simple as chucking a big juicy bone for her or even placing her food outside and leaving her out along with it may help break her into going out alone. She probably had some bad experience when alone outdoors as a pup and is just fearful about doing so now. You should also begin obedience training her so that when you tell her NO she knows that it is something she shouldn't be doing (scratching your bedroom door for example). Have a look in the main ebook, it had some great tips for training puppies.

Well, that's about all I have for you. I hope the advice helps and it would be great if you could keep us posted on Leila's behavioral changes. I hope she improves soon.

Best wishes you both.

Preethi

Hi Deb,

You are most welcome. Thank you for your response.

I am sure Leila will soon be the best behaved dog in your block! All the best

Kind regards,
Preethi