1-2-1 Separation Anxiety Training
Is your dog struggling with separation anxiety? Do you struggle with feeling isolated and like a prisoner in your own home, unable to leave your dog without them becoming stressed? At Shape Dogs, we specialise in personalised separation anxiety training that adapts to your dog's needs, helping them to overcome their fears, and for you to regain your freedom.
Rediscover independence, for you and your dog.
Is your dog struggling with their separation anxiety? We can help.
Imagine being able to commit to social plans, book dog-free activities and not worry about the cost or availability of a last minute dog sitter. This is all possible with the help of proven, scientifically-backed separation anxiety training.
If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety – such as door scratching, excessive whining or howling, panting or destruction – and you're feeling a bit stuck, we can help.
We work with dog owners like you, to teach you the strategies and techniques needed to guide your dog being happy and relaxed, home alone, as well as to become an expert in your dog's communication and body language. Our training methods have helped thousands of dogs worldwide, and we'll make sure you're well equipped to continue your training after your programme has ended as well.
Discover separation anxiety training that works
Things you may have already tried or myths you've been told
The tricky thing with separation anxiety is how to train your dog when you're not there.
You may have heard or tried one or more of the following:
- Letting your dog "cry it out"
- Leave them with a long-lasting food toy
- Putting your dog in a crate when you leave
- Calming sprays and supplements
- Tire your dog out
- Get another dog
How we'll work with you to achieve effective results
With separation anxiety training, we're working on changing how your dog feels, which means there's no quick fix.
But for effective results you can expect:
- Desensitising your dog to triggers which signify your leaving, i.e. the door!
- Gradual exposure to being home alone without your dog feeling scared
- Help with identifying any underlying pain
- A holistic approach that considers all aspects of your dog's life and how they're affecting the training
- Bespoke and easily adaptable training plans to best suit you and your dog for a greater chance of success
What to expect from your personalised training programme
Ready to get started?
Book your free discovery callYou'll be working with me, Amy
I know that separation anxiety can make you feel like a prisoner in your own home, because in 2022, I also adopted a rescue dog with separation anxiety.
Since then, I've trained with world-renowned separation anxiety expert Julie Naismith on her flagship course towards becoming a separation anxiety pro behaviourist, all whilst building a solid understanding of canine cognition, behaviour and body language.
And now, I'm offering my knowledge and experience in the form of bespoke training plans and support for you and your dog.
Online training for all dogs, worldwide
When working with separation anxiety we train virtually to help you to become an expert in your dog's body language, and your dog to stay relaxed and realise that being home alone isn't all that bad, really.
You'll have ongoing, convenient WhatsApp support and video review throughout, as well as handy guides and video tutorials when training through our 1-2-1 programme.
Gradual desensitisation
It's really important that separation anxiety training is done at your dog's pace.
You can't reinforce emotions, or quick-fix separation anxiety, so we work on gradually building up the time home alone that your dog can cope with, helping them to overcome any feelings of fear or frustration they may have, so that they can finally relax.
Kind, scientifically-proven approach
The dog training world is constantly evolving. We pride ourselves on being kind, scientifically-proven, positive reinforcement trainers, building dog and owner relationships based on trust and mutual respect, and staying up-to-date with the latest effective separation anxiety training methods.
FAQs
Here's some of the most common questions we have in relation to separation anxiety training.
Still have a question? Feel free to book a no obligation discovery call where we can discuss any questions you have. Alternatively, you can submit questions through our contact form or main FAQs page.
How long will separation anxiety training take?
The duration of separation anxiety training can vary depending on the severity of the anxiety and the individual dog. Some dogs may show improvement within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent training and management. Our goal is to work at a pace that is comfortable for your dog and ensures lasting results. We'll provide a customised plan and keep track of progress throughout your training programme so that we can spot anything that might be impacting your dog's training too.
How can I tell if my dog has separation anxiety?
Signs of separation anxiety in dogs can include excessive barking or howling when left alone, destructive behaviours (chewing furniture, digging), attempts to escape, pacing, and excessive salivation or panting. Some dogs may also exhibit signs of distress when you prepare to leave the house as they recognise what we call "departure cues". If you notice these behaviours regularly when your dog is alone, it may be a sign of separation anxiety.
What causes separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety is believed to be caused by a variety of factors, including moving to a new home, the loss of a family member or another pet, or a lack of early socialisation. And some dogs are more prone to anxiety due to their temperament, early maternal experiences or genetic predisposition. The cause of your dog's separation anxiety is not something we need to worry about though, as all separation anxiety is treated the same with gradual exposure.
How much support will we have throughout a training programme?
You can expect unlimited WhatsApp support through every training programme that we offer, because we believe this is essential to helping you and your dog progress. We'll be able to review any videos that you have and provide advice, be on-hand to answer questions and we'll suggest any modifications to your training plan as and when needed. But more than anything, we just want to be available as your personal cheerleader, so let us know your wins as well as any challenges you face!
Ready to help your dog overcome separation anxiety?
Take the first step towards a happier, stress-free home alone life for your dog and regain your freedom. Schedule your free discovery call and start your training journey today.
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