It’s one thing for your dog to bark when there is a stranger but it’s another thing when they bark when you’re not home.
Perhaps a recent complaint from a neighbor is leaving you worried that your dogs are disrupting the neighborhood and also causing your pup a lot of stress too.
The key to stopping your dog from barking when you leave them alone is to keep them busy and comfortable until you return. While this isn’t always possible, there are a few steps you can take to limit separation barking.
How to Stop My Dog From Barking When I Leave
It’s important to realize that most barking stems from boredom, fear, or anxiety. So, reducing the amount of time your pup feels these feelings will naturally reduce their barking.
Exercise
If you can tire out your dog before you leave, they’ll feel more inclined to relax and wait patiently for you to return.
The last thing you want to do is leave a wound up energetic dog behind because they’ll be more prone to getting into mischief while you’re gone.
Of course, this isn’t always possible with work schedules, children, and other obligations. If you have to, consider finding someone to come in the middle of the day to walk your dog.
Familiar Smells and Sounds
Creating familiarity can reduce the amount of anxiety your dog has when you’re gone. Keeping the radio or TV on gives them the feeling that someone is there. Spraying a perfume or cologne that you wear on their doggy bed or in their area can also provide them with much needed comfort.
Keep Them Busy
Using canine toys and puzzles is a great way to keep your pup busy when you’re at work or appointments.
There are a number of dog hide and seek toys that can keep your pup busy for a while right when you leave.
The key is to get them engaged in this activity right away upon your departure so they almost forget that you left.
Anti-Barking Devices (Safe and Humane)
In some cases, all of the simpler methods will not work and it may seem like your dog will never get tired of barking.
If you find yourself in this situation, anti-barking devices that do not harm your dog may be the solution. They omit a sound that only dogs can hear whenever they bark. It may not completely eliminate the barking but it can slow it down to appease angry neighbors.
Final Thoughts
Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety and it’s something you want to take seriously. Your pup is seriously upset when you leave and they’re barking as a response to their stress.
There are a number of smartphone apps, doggie cameras, and other options you can deploy to help make time away easier on your canine.
Try not to get upset with your dog for barking when you leave and instead come up with a solution that makes life easier for everyone.
