So I recently took in this big bully dog (he’s massive, like a gentle giant), and he’s an absolute sweetheart. The family who had him before couldn’t keep him—they were going through a tough time, and I felt so bad for them. Now he’s with us, and while my kids absolutely adore him, he won’t leave my side. If I put him in his crate to go to work, he cries nonstop until I let him out. When he’s out, he just wants to play or stick by me. Is this separation anxiety? What can I do to help him feel more comfortable when I’m not around?
Yeah, sounds like separation anxiety to me. My dog was the same when I first got her. Try making the crate a happy place for him—like giving him treats or feeding him in there.
Diya said:
Yeah, sounds like separation anxiety to me. My dog was the same when I first got her. Try making the crate a happy place for him—like giving him treats or feeding him in there.
Good advice! I did that too, and it really helped. Also, don’t let him out while he’s crying. It’s tough, but it works over time.
Diya said:
Yeah, sounds like separation anxiety to me. My dog was the same when I first got her. Try making the crate a happy place for him—like giving him treats or feeding him in there.
Wait, why not let him out if he’s crying? Doesn’t that just mean he’s uncomfortable?
@PetProPaula
If you let him out while crying, it teaches him that crying gets him out. It’s better to wait until he’s calm, so he learns that calm behavior = freedom.
@PetProPaula
Exactly! It’s all about positive reinforcement. Crying = no reward, calm = reward. Makes a huge difference in the long run.
I’d recommend giving him more exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, lol. Long walks or some fetch could help tire him out so he’s more relaxed in the crate.
Elonshepherd said:
I’d recommend giving him more exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, lol. Long walks or some fetch could help tire him out so he’s more relaxed in the crate.
This! My dog sleeps like a baby after a long walk. Do you have a yard where he can run around too?
Elonshepherd said:
I’d recommend giving him more exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, lol. Long walks or some fetch could help tire him out so he’s more relaxed in the crate.
Lol, same here. I call it the zoomies cure. Run 'em out and they’re chill AF after.
Do you have toys or puzzles for him? My dog loves those treat-dispensing ones. It keeps them distracted when you’re not around.
Linda said:
Do you have toys or puzzles for him? My dog loves those treat-dispensing ones. It keeps them distracted when you’re not around.
Oh, I haven’t tried that yet. Do you have a specific one you recommend?
@SHAWN
Kong toys are great. You can stuff them with peanut butter and freeze them. Keeps them busy for ages!
Patience is key. You’re doing a great job already. It’s gonna take time for him to feel safe and secure in his new home. Keep at it!
YukiJane said:
Patience is key. You’re doing a great job already. It’s gonna take time for him to feel safe and secure in his new home. Keep at it!
Thanks for the encouragement. It’s good to hear that this just takes time.
YukiJane said:
Patience is key. You’re doing a great job already. It’s gonna take time for him to feel safe and secure in his new home. Keep at it!
Yeah, he’ll get there. Dogs are super resilient when they’re loved. You got this!