A lot of people got a puppy or a dog during 2020. That was the one good thing that came out of the pandemic. Some people got a pup because they had a lot of extra time on their hands and so therefore had time for a puppy. Some people sought out a puppy because they were lonely in isolation and wanted a companion. Others got a puppy as a way of coping during the pandemic. Whatever the reason, good for you! The shelters and the rescues are very grateful for this.
But now you are going back to work and the kids are back in school and you are worried about leaving your new companion at home for long hours when they were use to having you home all of the time. Separation anxiety is real! Both for the dog, but also for you as the owner. Some of the behaviors that you might start to see as you stay gone longer are your pup may whine or howl. They may start to pee or poop in the house. They may tear up stuff such as papers or pillows or scratch obsessively at the door. They may pace constantly or try to escape. They may drool or pant excessively.
So what can you do to help your pup with the transition of going back to work? There are several things that you can do. A few weeks before you go back to work you can start to leave the house longer and longer. So at first leave for a few minutes, then make it longer each time. Give a puzzle or a long lasting treat to your dog to occupy him or her while you leave. Don’t make a big deal out of leaving. Don’t make it a production. Your pup may start to get nervous when they see signs you’re about to leave, like putting on your shoes or picking up your keys. So do those things, but then don’t leave. For example, put on your shoes but then sit down at the table, or pick up your keys and then go do something else like watch tv. Do this over and over many times before you head back to work. Make sure that your pup gets plenty of exercise. A tired pup will be a less anxious pup. Leave a piece of clothing around so that your pup can smell you while you are gone. There are calming treats available that you can give your pup. And along with all of the things above, the most important thing you can do is hire a professional dogwalker!! When a dogwalker comes to your house in the middle of the work day, your dog will get socialization with other people and other dogs, they will get good exercise which will help them feel more relaxed, and they will get some good TLC to help them get through the day until you get home. And finally, ask your vet for more suggestions that pertain specifically to your dog.
Some people will unfortunately rehome their dog once they go back to work. They may find that they cannot have a dog and be at work and have the kids at school. It has been reported that the shelters are once again filling up. But most people are seeking out professional dogwalkers or even doggie day care. I recommend having a professional dogwalker come to your house while you are at work. It does not have to be every day. It can be two or three times a week. It is a nice break for your dog to get out of the house and get some exercise and some socialization, and it may keep you from having to rehome your beloved family member.
In summary, now that we are going back to work, what do we do with our beloved pet? Especially if they are showing signs of separation anxiety. Start early in getting your pup use to you leaving. Get some toys or puzzles to keep your dog occupied while you are gone. And finally HIRE A PROFESSIONAL DOGWALKER!!