Being aware of how you encourage your dog’s unwanted clinginess helps you to discourage it as well!
If your dog is clinging to you out of fear, they may pant heavily, pin their ears back, and open their eyes wide. To address this behavior, take measures to help your dog to feel safe during thunderstorms and fireworks.
In the case of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, clinginess may also be accompanied by other changes, such as increased disorientation, increased anxiety and restlessness, changes in sleep cycle, accidents relieving themselves, decreased appetite, or decreased activity. [7] X Research source If your dog suddenly begins clingy behavior or shows other signs of pain or discomfort, reach out and discuss your concerns with a veterinary professional. Learn how to help your older dog with clinginess.
Make the most of walks by taking different routes and allowing your dog time to smell the scents other dogs have left behind. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Encourage intense exercise in addition to walks, such as fetch or other activities where your dog can run. [11] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Different breeds have unique exercise needs. Talk with a vet or breeder for breed-specific guidance. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Do not react harshly, as this will worsen the situation if your dog is feeling anxious. [14] X Research source Do not push your dog away because they will think you are playing with them and will continue to try to play with you. If your dog resorts to destructive behavior that you need to stop, try to distract them without engaging their behavior, like by ringing the doorbell. [15] X Research source
Use rewards that really motivate them, like toys and food.
Teaching your dog to go to their bed benefits your stay training by giving them a place to be comfortable on their own. Provide treats and toys at their bed to entice them to use it. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Try to avoid training your dog if you’re in a hurry, are feeling frustrated, or aren’t clear about what you want to achieve. Think about what training expectations are realistic for your dog’s age group along with the environment that you’re working in.
If your dog stands up whenever you do, sit back down and then stand up again, continuing this process until your dog does not stand up when you do. Then attempt to leave the room. If your dog goes to follow you, continue walking within the room until they stop following. Then actually walk out of the room. If your dog follows you out of the room, walk back into the room and continue to walk in and out until your dog stops following again.
You can make your own challenging puzzles for your dogs to play with too! A simple option is to make holes in an empty plastic container just large enough that treats or pieces of food can pass through. Then fill the container with a handful of treats or food and allow your dog to play with it, moving it until it releases some of their food. [21] X Trustworthy Source Animal Humane Society Leading animal welfare nonprofit organization providing medical care, training education, and resources for animal owners Go to source Be sure to supervise your dog so they do not start chewing up the plastic.
Additionally, socialization is a great source of stimulation and exercise. [23] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Some vets are certified as behavioral specialists and if not, they can refer you to a behaviorist if necessary. [26] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Dogs exhibiting clinginess when you are home will not necessarily have separation anxiety or develop it in the future, but they may be more likely to. Address clingy behaviors before they become worse. [28] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Counterconditioning teaches your dog to associate you leaving with something positive which they receive when you go, like a special toy with treats.
Comprehensive desensitization and counterconditioning for severe separation anxiety is difficult and may require help. Your vet can refer you to an animal behaviorist; though some veterinarians are certified as veterinary behaviorists as well. [32] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source A professional dog trainer may be able to help too, but find out first if they have education and experience in addressing separation anxiety through these methods. [33] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
