One training technique that may be beneficial for you and your pup is crate training. Whether your animal is already crate-trained or has never been before, crate-training creates a safe space for your pet that they can find solitude in before you return to work. 

If you have never crate-trained your dog before, one should begin training while they are at home with their animal. This way, you both can mutually see each other, making your pet more comfortable just by your presence alone. Next, one should find their dog’s motivator–whether that be a specific brand of treats, a bone, or a stuffed animal, whatever motivates them to complete day-to-day tasks should be used in crate-training to ensure a positive experience for your animal. 

An important aspect of crate-training is to always leave the crate door open at first–you want your animal to be able to move freely because this is *their* space. Once your pup starts going in and out of the crate on their own, this is the time where you can begin to close the crate door and leave them for short periods of time. We recommend doing this while you are still at home at first, leaving them for 5 minute intervals and gradually increasing the time left alone in the crate. Place your pet’s motivator (i.e. treats, toys, etc.) in the crate as well. 

Once your pet is comfortable when left in his or her crate for 30+ minutes, one can begin crating their pup for more extended periods of time. If your dog is crated for longer than 6 hours while you are working, it would be a great idea to consider a dog daycare facility or dog walker to give your dog enrichment throughout your workday. For more information on crate training, consider visiting the Humane Society of the United States’ crate training guide (linked here).

 

  

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