My dog gets anxious when parents leave. How to help her settle?

Question

I have a 6/7 year old rescue. When both my parents are gone she gets really anxious. Walking around the house all night. She does sleep with them. She doesn’t really want to be with me. I don’t know how to help her anxiety. My parents are about to leave the state for 16 days and it will just be her and I. We did get calming treats and she has a thunder jacket. Is it safe to sleep in? Do you have any tips on how I can get her to settle down with me? I get very little sleep when they are gone! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 7 years and 2 months old | 55 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Your best option is to try to wear Sunshine out every day. Making dogs physically tired typically helps to decrease anxiety and nervous behavior. The thunder jacket may help as well but it may not be comfortable to sleep in and could choke her if it shifts around too much. Make sure to try to keep her on the same routine your parents do as this can help her to feel more secure. If you have to work, you may look into having someone take her for a walk for you in the afternoon. Playing classical music in the background and giving her food puzzles, treat balls and frozen peanut butter stuffed Kong‘s may also help to occupy her. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

My dog gets anxious when parents leave. How to help her settle?

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