Hey all, my grandson’s black lab Diesel has been really anxious since he moved out and started living on his own. Both he and his girlfriend work all day, and Diesel isn’t used to being alone for so long. He’ll go to the window, watch them leave, and then whine a lot. Are there any tips or ideas to help with his anxiety? Maybe medications or other things we can try? Thanks for any advice!
Have you looked into calming aids like Adaptil or Zylkene? They’re over-the-counter options that might help ease his anxiety.
Oliver said:
Have you looked into calming aids like Adaptil or Zylkene? They’re over-the-counter options that might help ease his anxiety.
I haven’t heard of those before. What are they exactly?
Oliver said:
Have you looked into calming aids like Adaptil or Zylkene? They’re over-the-counter options that might help ease his anxiety.
Adaptil mimics calming dog pheromones, and Zylkene is a supplement from milk proteins. Both are pretty easy to try out.
Oliver said:
Have you looked into calming aids like Adaptil or Zylkene? They’re over-the-counter options that might help ease his anxiety.
Thanks, that sounds promising. I’ll tell my grandson to check them out.
Maybe a dog walker could help? Breaking up his alone time with some midday attention could make a big difference.
CanineHandler said:
Maybe a dog walker could help? Breaking up his alone time with some midday attention could make a big difference.
That’s a great idea. Do you think a pet sitter might work too?
CanineHandler said:
Maybe a dog walker could help? Breaking up his alone time with some midday attention could make a big difference.
Absolutely! Someone popping in to check on him and give him some love could really help ease his stress.
Interactive toys like treat-dispensing puzzles could keep Diesel busy and distracted while they’re gone. Ever tried those?
PetProPaula said:
Interactive toys like treat-dispensing puzzles could keep Diesel busy and distracted while they’re gone. Ever tried those?
I don’t think we have. Do you have a recommendation for one that’s good for big dogs like labs?
PetProPaula said:
Interactive toys like treat-dispensing puzzles could keep Diesel busy and distracted while they’re gone. Ever tried those?
KONG toys are a solid choice. You can stuff them with treats or peanut butter. My dog loves it!
PetProPaula said:
Interactive toys like treat-dispensing puzzles could keep Diesel busy and distracted while they’re gone. Ever tried those?
Perfect, I’ll suggest that to my grandson. Thanks!
For a bigger change, doggy daycare might be an option. He could socialize and get exercise while your grandson works.
amby said:
For a bigger change, doggy daycare might be an option. He could socialize and get exercise while your grandson works.
That’s an interesting idea. Do you think that’s better than just hiring a dog walker?
amby said:
For a bigger change, doggy daycare might be an option. He could socialize and get exercise while your grandson works.
It depends on Diesel. If he loves being around other dogs, daycare can be awesome. If not, a walker might be better.
If nothing else works, a vet could prescribe meds like fluoxetine or trazodone to help with his anxiety.
sirigwen said:
If nothing else works, a vet could prescribe meds like fluoxetine or trazodone to help with his anxiety.
Are those safe? I wouldn’t want anything to harm him.
sirigwen said:
If nothing else works, a vet could prescribe meds like fluoxetine or trazodone to help with his anxiety.
Totally safe if prescribed by a vet! They’d adjust the dosage to fit Diesel’s needs.