To begin, let’s say you’re the proud pet parent of a new puppy – or are planning to be. As with most things, preparation is key. Plan ahead. Ideally, consult with a force-free trainer and start thinking about the skills you might want your pup to learn, so you can help your new family member start off on the right paw.
Fortunately, not every pup that struggles to see the value of “me time” is truly, clinically suffering from separation anxiety. For those who are, the safest, best approach is working with a certified professional. But, any pup can get a bit stressed at times if no one’s home or no one’s paying attention to his needs. In this two-part series on shaping confident, independent puppies and dogs, we’ll explore training and management options (with an emphasis on fun and games!) that will set you and your Inquisitive Canine up for success. In Part One, you’ll find general tips for life skills and confidence building first in puppies, then in adult dogs. The second part will address specific situations such as being outside alone, being alone at night-time and will review tips for preparing for transitions like back to school or heading back into the office after working from home.
Stay tuned for Part Two of this article, where we troubleshoot specific situations that can be challenging for some pets and their people.
Now, what if you’re not starting from puppyhood? Can adult dogs still learn new life skills? Can they “unlearn” old habits? Of course! As you’ll see, much of the approach to teaching adult dogs to be more independent is very similar to teaching puppies.
Teaching skills for confidence and independence are essential to your pet’s emotional and physical wellbeing. However, remember to enjoy your quality time together too. There’s no substitute for unleashing adventure and harnessing fun with your Inquisitive Canine.
What do you do with an independent puppy?
How to Get an Independent Dog to Respect You
What does it mean if a puppy is independent?
An independent puppy or dog doesn’t mean it’s not an affectionate or a wonderful companion. It simply means they are exceptionally content with their own company and don’t need to be constantly entertained by you. Most tightly bond with their person, and are very loyal and affectionate.
Should I get an independent puppy?
Puppies are impressionable bundles of fur; what you do and say and how you treat your baby in the first months of her life lays the groundwork for either an independent disposition or for anxious, clingy behavior. Understanding this critical stage helps you better raise confident and well-adjusted pups.
Bring your puppy home at an appropriate age — approximately 8 to 10 weeks old. While puppies may be especially cute at 5 or 6 weeks, they are not weaned or ready to leave their mother until at least 8 weeks of age.
Expose your pup to as many events, people, dogs, places and experiences as possible — after shes had her complete series of vaccinations. During this period, socialization for a young dog is generally deemed a positive experience, according to Purdue University Veterinary School of Medicine.
Enroll your pup in puppy classes. Teach her to walk confidently on a lead, to heel, sit and stay. Training is the jewel in the crown of dog ownership and there is no more important variable influencing her temperament, according to veterinarian Ian Dunbar.
Introduce your puppy to crate training in a positive manner. Place a soft, comfortable bed, treats and toys in the crate and leave the door open, letting the pup explore her new “den” on her own. Avoid forcing the dog into her crate. When the dog goes into her crate and lays down, close the door for a few minutes. Let her out after a brief period of time, then return her, steadily increasing the length of time in the crate. Resist opening the door when the puppy whines or cries.
Refrain from punishing your puppy. According to the Monks of New Skete, this creates a fearful, apprehensive and submissive dog. Instead, adopt a more patient and positive leadership role, using praise and encouragement to get the desired result.
Play with your puppy. Keep your interactions light and pleasant. Puppies learn best in the context of play and this “fun” time can lay the groundwork for solid, confident and independent behavior later on.
Make your comings and goings as low-key as possible. While its natural to be excited to see your dog when you get home from work, acting exuberant when you return for the day or slathering your puppy with affection before you leave for the day can set you up for a case of separation anxiety, the antithesis of independence. Instead, ignore your dog for a few minutes before you leave and after you get home. Initiate contact only when the dog is calm, according to dog behaviorist Cesar Millan.
Elle Smith has been an advertising professional for more than 25 years. Her work for ABC, CBS and Sony Pictures Television has appeared on radio, on air, in print and outdoors. In addition, Smith has more than 20 years experience in marketing, graphic arts, commercial photography and print production, and is a licensed real estate agent with property management certification in California.