When Should You Work with a Qualified Separation Anxiety Trainer?

Ideally, I recommend that every dog owner dealing with separation anxiety work with a qualified separation anxiety trainer. Professional guidance can make the process significantly smoother and more effective. However, I understand that for many people, this isn't always financially feasible.

That said, there are certain situations where working with a professional is especially beneficial. You should consider working with a qualified separation anxiety trainer if:

• You're just getting started with separation anxiety training and don’t know where to begin.

• You’ve been trying on your own for a while but aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for.

• You’re bringing a new dog into your home and want to set them up for success by building positive experiences with alone time from the start.

• You want expert support someone who understands what it’s like to live with a dog who struggles with being alone, and who can offer guidance, encouragement, and motivation throughout the journey.

While the concept of gradually desensitising a dog to being alone might sound straightforward, the reality is that the process can be anything but easy. Every dog’s journey is unique, and progress depends on a range of factors.

It’s essential to start training at a level your dog can comfortably handle and ensure they stay under their fear threshold throughout. This means conducting a thorough assessment before training begins and only increasing the duration of absences when your dog is ready for it.

To ensure your dog has positive experiences during training, it’s also crucial to consider outside factors, such as; health, changes in routine, or stress that might affect their ability to cope. Reading your dog’s body language accurately is another key skill. Being able to recognise signs of stress or comfort will help you adjust your training plan accordingly.

In my 4- and 8-week separation anxiety training programmes, I’ll share the tools, techniques, and knowledge you need to feel confident continuing the training process on your own. My goal is to empower you and support you and your dog every step of the way. If you are interested in working together head to my services page to find out more and to schedule a 15minute FREE enquiry call.