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Companion Dog

Guide to Helping Your New Rescue Dog with Separation Anxiety: A Team Effort with Your Existing Companion

Congratulations on bringing a new rescue dog into your home! It’s wonderful that you’ve chosen to provide a loving space for a dog in need. While the journey ahead may come with challenges, having your existing companion dog around can make a world of difference in easing your new rescue’s separation anxiety. Here’s a fun and engaging guide to help you and your canine duo tackle this together:

  1. Introductions: Making Friends and Creating Comfort
    1. The Great Meet-and-Greet
      Setting the Stage: Choose a neutral space for the introduction. This can help both dogs feel more comfortable.
      ‘Pawsitive’ First Impressions: Keep the first meeting short and sweet. Allow them to sniff each other, but monitor their interactions closely.
      Treats and Praise: Reward both dogs with treats and praise for calm and friendly behaviour. This helps create ‘pawsitive’ associations.
    2. Establishing a Safe Haven
      Designate Spaces: Create a cozy area for the new dog where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This should be a quiet, comfortable spot with their bed, toys, and a few of your clothing items for a comforting scent.
  2. Building Confidence: Training and Routine
    1. Buddy Training
      Training Together: Use your existing dog as a role model during training sessions. Dogs learn from each other, so if your companion is calm and well-behaved, your new dog will take cues from them.
      Positive Reinforcement: Reward both dogs for good behaviour during training. This creates a positive environment and helps build confidence.
    2. Establishing a Routine
      Consistency is Key: Keep a consistent daily routine for feeding, walks, and playtime. Predictability helps reduce anxiety for both dogs.
      Gradual Adjustments: Slowly increase the time your new dog spends alone while your existing dog is with them. This helps them get used to being alone gradually.
  3. Separation Training: Building Independence Together
    1. Practice Short Absences
      Start Small: Begin with short periods where you leave the house, gradually increasing the time as your new dog becomes more comfortable.
      Leave a Comfort Item: Provide a toy or blanket with your scent to help soothe your dog in your absence.
    2. Interactive Toys and Puzzle
      Entertainment: Provide engaging toys and puzzle feeders to keep your new dog occupied while you’re away. This not only distracts them but also makes alone time more enjoyable.
  4. Socialization and Bonding: Strengthening the Pack
    1. Fun Activities Together
      Playtime: Engage in activities that both dogs enjoy. Play fetch, go for walks, or have a playdate. This helps build a strong bond between them and keeps your new dog feeling secure.
      Group Training Classes: Consider enrolling in training classes for both dogs. This provides socialization opportunities and reinforces ‘pawsitive’ behaviour.  “Ok I promise I will stop that now”.
    2. Creating Positive Associations
      Special Treats: Use high-value treats to reward both dogs for good behaviour and calmness when you’re preparing to leave.
      Calm Departures and Arrivals: Keep departures and arrivals low-key to avoid heightening anxiety. Avoid dramatic goodbyes or enthusiastic greetings when you come home.
  5. Seeking Professional Help: When to Reach Out
    1. Recognizing the Need for Support
      Persistent Anxiety: If your new dog’s separation anxiety seems severe or doesn’t improve with these strategies, it might be time to seek help from a professional dog behaviourist.
      Medical Check: In some cases, separation anxiety can be linked to underlying medical issues. A visit to the vet can help rule out any health concerns.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a new rescue dog into your home is a rewarding experience, and with the support of your existing companion, you’re setting the stage for a happy, harmonious household. Patience, consistency, and teamwork will go a long way in helping your new dog overcome separation anxiety. Enjoy the journey and celebrate the small victories along the way!

Happy training, and here’s to a joyful, anxiety-free home for your growing pack!