training
by zeynep
(london)
hi i got a 4 months old staff male puppy,i haven't left him home alone yet but tried to go out for a bit just to test him but he nonstop barked.
how can i train him to stay home and wont bark????
Hi Zeynep
It's normal for a puppy to want to be close to his owner/s, especially if this is what he's used to. However, it's also very important for him to learn that he can be left alone for periods of time without making a fuss.
Of course, like everything else this takes practice, and chances are your puppy will cry, whine, bark and complain for the first few times you leave him. It should improve as he gets used to it, and I'd recommend giving him short, 'trial runs' to help him adjust. Making sure he has some favorite, sturdy chew toys and perhaps the radio or TV for company often helps.
Some dogs are excessively anxious when left alone, and this is called separation anxiety. I don't think we can say that this is your puppy's problem just yet, as it's too early to tell. However, there are lots of tips and advice that can help with this should it arise (many of them help even mildly anxious dogs).
You can find out more about this on my Dog Training For Separation Anxiety page. Best of luck with your pup.
