Dog Separation Anxiety

Michael Schaier, the founder and CEO of Michael’s Pack, has completed the CSAT (Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer) program. This program places a heavy emphasis on helping dogs deal with separation anxiety, which is one of the most difficult behaviors to work with when it comes to dogs. Only a select few dog trainers in the country have earned this certification. We provide convenient, professional virtual separation anxiety training that works around your schedule.

Read more about the Benefits of Working with a CSAT trainer

If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety, it means they are uncomfortable being left home alone. This is an extremely common behavior in dogs and puppies. If this is not addressed when the dog first shows symptoms it can get progressively worse. There are a number of symptoms that you may not associate with dog separation anxiety at first, but the behavior can be easily identified if you are aware of what to look for. Having a dog who feels safe, calm and comfortable in the house can give great peace of mind to both the dog and the owner.

Not every dog deals with separation anxiety in the same way. However, there are some common symptoms that could be an indication that your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. Here is a list of some behaviors you should keep an eye out for:

• Urinating and Defecating – If your dog makes a habit of urinating or defecating specifically when you are not around, it could be due to separation anxiety. If they do the same in your presence, it is probably not related.
• Barking and Howling – Constant barking and howling, specifically triggered by being left alone, may indicate separation anxiety.
• Pacing – If a dog walks in a fixed pattern when left alone, it may indicate separation issues.
• Chewing and Destructive Behavior – Chewing and other destructive behavior may be indicative of a number of problems, but if it only occurs when a dog’s guardian is not present, separation anxiety should be considered.

If you notice any of these behaviors consistently, it is likely you are dealing with dog separation anxiety and waiting to address the issue may only make it worse. Dealing with the problem as soon as possible will make the training much quicker and easier, and improve the relationship between you and your pet.

At Michael’s Pack, our trainers are flexible when it comes to providing virtual separation anxiety training. We can use Zoom, Facetime, or any other popular video communication options available to our clients. You can use your personal computer, tablet, or phone to chat with us and during our virtual training sessions, we can tackle specific behavioral issues including separation anxiety.

The CSAT program requires a 4-week minimum commitment as separation anxiety is a complex behavior and the process to change the behavior is gradual. During these 4 weeks, we work closely with our clients 5 days a week. The program can be broken down into the following concepts:

• Daily mission creation (5 days a week) – We will be creating individualized training plans based on your dog’s personality and behavior. This is broken down day by day specifically for you and your dog to get the best possible results.
• Daily support and feedback (5 days a week) – It is best to take stock daily of what is working and what needs to be improved. This daily feedback will help mold the program to your dog’s needs.
• Weekly live virtual assessment with you and your dog – While we will be in touch daily, the weekly assessment will dive deeper into any questions or concerns you may have.
• Tracking of progress – Dog’s are living things, and just like with humans they sometimes do not progress in a perfectly linear fashion. There may be setbacks but we take great care in tracking their progress and seeing how they are doing daily and over a longer period of time.

Benefits of Remote Training for Separation Anxiety

Unlike some behavioral issues in dogs, dealing with separation anxiety does not require the trainer to be physically present. In fact, remote training can typically work better than in-person training when tackling separation anxiety. Being physically present can inhibit progress with anxious dogs. The “trainer effect” is also a very real phenomenon where a dog will show progress in the presence of the trainer but lapse back into their habits when the trainer is not around. Remote sessions help avoid this scenario.

Other benefits of virtual separation anxiety training include:

• Work with the most qualified separation anxiety trainers no matter where you live.
• Extremely flexible training schedule to fit your needs.
• Maintain your privacy and routine. You don’t need to worry about tidying up or rushing home for a session.
• Fewer distractions for your dog, and they will be in a familiar environment with familiar people.

If you suspect your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety, Michael’s Pack can help. Some of the information we will ask you to assess your separation anxiety training options includes:

1. Where Was Your Dog Acquired?
2. How Often is Your Dog Being Left Alone Currently?
3. Can You Adjust Your Schedule During Training?
4. Have You Done Any Previous Separation Anxiety Training?
5. How Long Would You Like To Be Able To Leave Your Dog Alone? (In Hours)

Contact us today to learn more about our virtual separation anxiety dog training services. We also offer a wide range of in-home dog training services in New Jersey and New York.