It seems as if, like many of us, our dogs lost their private time when the "Stay at Home" restrictions were set by our government. Unlike us, though, they don't understand why it has happened or even that there's a world outside of their regular domain. They don't understand what COVID-19 is and, similar to us, have had to make steep adjustments practically overnight. Moreover, their human family also needs to make some adjustments to help them.
Have you noticed any of these changes?
- Happier, loving all the attention, walking and playing all day like they have always dreamed?
- Seeking time away from the family, disinterested in taking another walk, eating and drinking less?
- Growling, moving away from people, overstimulated, and possibly resorting to biting for the first time?
This is all new - and uncharted for everyone - so how can we help?
The activity levels in our homes hav increased dramatically. Dogs are emotional creatures. They notice changes in the "mood" of the house and "their people." here are a few tips for how to help them maintain balance during these uncertain times.
- Create Boundaries
- using a crate, corral, gates to partition off rooms
- use a leash in the home
- teach your puppy to settle in their bed
- teach them not to bolt at thresholds ie. stairways, gates, doors
- teach them to go to their bed and settle during meals, etc.
- Allow them to have their own space to retreat to as they wish: all dog need to have a safe place to retreat to. Some examples of what you can do include:
- teach them to settle and self sooth
- make their bed or crate (with door open), in areas the family gathers most, available for them to take time to themselves
- if allowed on the couch make it a specific location on one spot and indicate it by using a blanket.
- Keep them on their normal routine
- Feed them at their usual time
- Walk them (if they typically walk)
- let them rest
- Teach the kids how to have purposeful interactions, so the dog is not being handled to much
- teach the kids how to make dog treats
- playing fetch
- taking the dog for a walk
- feeding (or watering) the dog
- Know your dogs stress signals and be their advocate:
- licking their lips
- tail tucked
- scratching
- yawning
- moving away
About Amy Ferguson and K9s Unleashed
AKC CGC,CGCA, CGCU and Trickdog Evaluator
Amy Ferguson has been professionally training dogs since 2002 with a concentration in Obedience, Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog Certification and Behavior Modification.
Amy has successfully trained many breeds and mystery mutts by utilizing positive reinforcement-based training methods. She excels in educating the handlers on how to observe and understand their dog’s behavior.
Located in Waxhaw, North Carolina, K9s Unleashed services the entire South Charlotte region and offers training options including Kids programs, private in-home training and group training classes. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Amy or one of her incredible trainers click HERE.
