
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:
- Introductions: Making Friends and Creating Comfort
- 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. - 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.
- The Great Meet-and-Greet
- Building Confidence: Training and Routine
- 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. - 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.
- Buddy Training
- Separation Training: Building Independence Together
- 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. - 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.
- Practice Short Absences
- Socialization and Bonding: Strengthening the Pack
- 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”. - 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.
- Fun Activities Together
- Seeking Professional Help: When to Reach Out
- 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.
- Recognizing the Need for Support
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!
