Preparing your pups for the end of lockdown

With the government set to talk us through lifting lockdown soon, there’re going to be a lot of doggos who’ve been enjoying having their humans home. If you can’t take your dog to work with you then they might be a little confused when you aren’t home all day! Below are instructions recommended by RSPCA…

Follow the simple steps below and gradually increase the time you leave your dog alone. Associate the training experience with something pleasant (for example, treats, toys, praise). Remember every dog is different. Progress at a speed that suits your dog's reaction - and never extend the training to the point that it becomes distressing for your dog.

1. Encourage your dog to go to their bed and stay in it for a while, and sit with them while they do so. Reward your dog for remaining quietly in their bed. If they get out, calmly lead them back in and give them a treat, then get them to wait there longer before you give them another treat.
   

2. Ask your dog to stay, then walk away. If your dog stays then almost immediately return and reward. Repeat this until you can walk 5 steps without your pup moving.
   

3. Continue this routine, moving progressively further away and for longer periods of time. The distance and length of time that you increase on occasion will depend on your dog. If your dog reacts or moves, don't reward them and never punish them - instead go back to the previous stage.
   

4. Start exiting the room before returning with a treat. Go out and shut the door behind you before staying outside for longer periods of time before going back with rewards if they stay. Once at this point, start to vary the length of time that you are out of the room.
   

5. Once you reach the stage where your dog is happy to be left for up to an hour there should be no problems leaving them for longer periods.
   

As always feel free to get in touch with any questions! Since the normal we knew has had to change, it may be worth asking whether your dog can (reasonably) tag along to work with you - unless you can work out a better arrangement for them.

Wag away!