The good news is that separation anxiety is common, and with a little preparation, most dogs can adjust successfully to the new routine.
In the next several weeks, more than 140,000 students across Baltimore County and City will head back to school, trading summer freedom for classrooms, homework, and after-school activities.
While families are busy buying school supplies and getting back into a routine, many overlook one family member who may have the toughest adjustment of all, the family dog.
After spending nearly every day with their favorite humans over the summer, many dogs suddenly find themselves home alone for six to eight hours a day.
The change can trigger separation anxiety, leading to excessive barking, destructive chewing accidents in the house, pacing, whining, and other stress-related behaviors.
At Best Friends Fur Ever, we often hear from pet parents this time of year who are surprised by how quickly their dog’s behavior changes once school starts. The good news is that separation anxiety is common, and with a little preparation, most dogs can adjust successfully to the new routine.
Here are five simple ways to help your dog beat the back-to-school blues.
1. Start the School Routine Before School Starts
Don’t wait until the first day of school to leave your dog home alone. A week or two before classes begin, start practicing your family’s new schedule. Leave the house for short periods, whether it’s a trip to the grocery store, a walk around the neighborhood, or a quick coffee run. Gradually increase the amount of time you’re away so your dog learns that you’ll always return. Consistency builds confidence.
2. Burn Off Energy Before Everyone Leaves
A tired dog is usually a calmer dog. Before heading out the door, take your dog for a walk, play a game of fetch or spend 15 to 20 minutes working on basic training. Physical exercise paired with mental stimulation can help reduce stress and make it easier for your dog to relax while you’re away.
3. Give Your Dog Something to Do.
Boredom can make separation anxiety worse.Leave your dog with puzzle toys, frozen treat-filled toys, snuffle mats or long-lasting chews to keep them mentally engaged after you leave. Rotating toys throughout the week helps keep them exciting and creates a positive association with alone time.
4. Keep Departures and Arrivals Low-Key
As much as we love our dogs, dramatic goodbyes can actually increase anxiety. Instead, keep your departure calm and matter of fact. When you return home, wait until your dog settles before showering them with attention. This teaches them that coming and going is a normal part of the day.
5. Consider Doggy Daycare
Some dogs simply don’t enjoy spending the day alone. Doggy daycare provides exercise, socialization, enrichment and a structured routine that keeps dogs active while their families are at work or school. Even attending daycare once or twice a week can help reduce boredom and make the transition back to school much easier. At Best Friends Fur Ever, our experienced team works with dogs of all ages, personalities and energy levels, providing a safe, supervised environment where they can play, learn and thrive while you’re away.
Know the Signs of Separation Anxiety
- Excessive barking or whining
- Destructive chewing or scratching at doors
- Pacing or inability to settle
- Indoor accidents despite being house-trained
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Attempts to escape
- Loss of appetite while home alone
Back-to-school season is an exciting time for families, but can be confusing and stressful for dogs who suddenly find themselves spending much more time alone.
A little preparation now can make a big difference. By gradually introducing a new routine, providing plenty of exercise and enrichment, and recognizing the early signs of separation anxiety, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and confident.
While daycare is a great option for many dogs, it isn’t the right fit for every pet. For senior dogs or those recovering from surgery or an injury, Best Friends Fur Ever’s Assisted Canine Care Plus (ACC+) program provides a calm, closely supervised environment with personalizes care, medication management, and plenty of one-on-one attention, giving families peace of mind while they’re away.
