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 Pet Central
Q&A
Q: We’re proud parents
of a 5- or 6-year-old shepherd mix from a nearby shelter. Scooter is a
great dog but he doesn’t like to be left alone. Any ideas? — D.C., Orlando,
Fla.
A: Congratulations
on your new arrival, and good for you for adopting an adult dog. Scooter
has probably had a rocky road in life; he’ll have to learn you’ll always
be there for him. Here’s how you can help Scooter:
Author and veterinarian
Dr. Ian Dunbar, of Berkeley, Calif., recommends an upbeat obedience class.
Even if your dog already knows the commands "sit," "stay"
and all the basics, this can be a real confidence booster. Dunbar suggests
doing the following exercise with a doggy bed. However, if Scooter is
being destructive when you’re not at home or having accidents, we suggest
doing the same exercise using a crate. (By the way, you don’t have to
buy an expensive doggy bed; an old blanket is fine.)
Start by teaching
the command "go to bed" or "go to the crate" with
the bed or crate located next to you. Place a Kong toy (available at pet
stores) stuffed with moist dog food or low fat peanut butter on the bed
or in the crate, so your dog not only has a reward but an activity to
keep him occupied. Start with the dog lying in bed or in the crate for
only a minute, then gradually build up the time to 30 minutes. Now, add
distance; slowly move into another room instead of sitting beside the
dog bed or crate. If Scooter gets up, simply go back and place him back
on the bed, or in the crate. You may keep the crate door open for this
exercise. Eventually, Scooter will learn all is fine with the door closed,
too.
The ultimate goal
is to place the Kong on the dog bed or in the crate (located in another
room) five minutes before you leave the house. Don’t allow your dog to
get there until you’re ready to actually depart. Instead of the dog being
anxious about your departure, he’ll be drooling for the goodie inside
the Kong. Only reserve this special Kong stuffed goodie for when you leave.
Meanwhile, downplay
all entrances and exits. If Scooter gets nervous as you put on your shoes
and grab your purse or car keys, go through the ritual of departing but
don’t go anywhere. When you arrive home, don’t acknowledge Scooter if
he’s barking and/or whining. Wait until he calms down before saying ‘hi.’
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