When summer or other time off draws nearer, there is a certain scent of promise in the air… only a few more weeks till school’s out!
These are times of year when many teachers and other school personnel may start considering a new dog or puppy. After all, when could be a better time to get a dog or puppy than when you have the whole summer or a long holiday vacation to train and enjoy him? While it is a good idea to get a new pet when you’ll have some time to spend with your dog or puppy, there are some behavior problems that teachers can avoid by being aware ahead of time.
For example, every year in the months of September and October, we work with many new clients whose dogs or puppies are experiencing separation anxiety. After the lazy days of summer, the dog or puppy has gotten used to his owner sleeping in, taking him for leisurely walks, bringing him lots of places, practicing lots of dog obedience training, and spending tons of time with him. It can be a big shock for a new pet to adapt to a full work day home alone after being used to having his human around all the time. Click here for another article about Dog’s Separation Anxiety.
House training is another issue that will take some adjustment when work resumes. All summer the dog or puppy had lots of walks and may have spent many hours outdoors. The muscle control to “hold it in” all day will need to be developed before school resumes
These problems can be easily avoided by training your dog or puppy to spend some time alone, even when you’re around. Your dog or puppy should spend several hours per day in his crate, so he develops the confidence to relax independently from you, and develop the needed muscle control to be thoroughly house trained.
Obedience training is another factor that can contribute to a well adjusted dog or puppy. By working on some basic dog training commands, your dog or puppy can be a confident, well adjusted, properly socialized pet. These attributes are conducive to avoiding many common behavior problems, separation anxiety included.
With a little forethought, you and your new dog or puppy can enjoy your time off together, as well as the months and years to follow!
Lori Verni-Fogarsi has been an author, speaker, small business consultant, and Certified Master Trainer for 18+ years. Her novel, “Momnesia,” (contemporary women’s fiction) has been designated a National Indie Excellence Book Awards Finalist, and her nonfiction book, “Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs,” has been widely acclaimed in its genre. To learn more, please visit www.LoriTheAuthor.com and join Lori on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoriTheAuthor.
