How to Train a Dog to Behave When You're Not Home

Owning a dog is a big responsibility and it's easy to imagine why dogs are often compared to children. To leave your canine child at home alone, you need to prepare and train your pet properly. A dog who isn't well trained can create all kinds of chaos and stress for the family and cause plenty of damage as well.

Instructions

    • 1

      Identify if your dog suffers from separation anxiety. Signs include obvious anxiety while you are getting ready to leave the house, acting out when you are gone, following you incessantly when you are home, reacting dramatically to your return home and excessive barking. If so, you can try home-training techniques.

    • 2

      Ensure the dog's basic needs are met in your absence. Provide plenty of food, fresh water and a clean warm spot for bedding.

    • 3

      Get your dog plenty of exercise by taking your pet for walks, play time in the yard or park and some general roughhousing with you. Like a child, a dog who has the opportunity to run about will be more likely to rest when you're gone instead of tearing up the house.

    • 4

      Keep your dog from having free reign at home, even when you are there. Instead use a crate method of training, or have a confinement area or a puppy playroom complete with beloved chew toys. Keep your puppy in a smaller space at regular intervals.

    • 5

      Leave behind a piece of fabric with your scent on it so your pet won't feel so lonely for you. This could be a blanket you've slept on, an old shirt or even clothing you've torn to rags.

    • 6

      Play a radio for your dog so some soothing noise occupies your pet.

    • 7

      Don't overindulge your dog when you get home because you missed it or feel guilty.