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Top Seven Steps To Block Labrador Anxiety Before It's Too Late!

2016/5/4 10:27:40

Labrador anxiety is a common dog behavior problem which must be stopped immediately before it becomes hard to handle! Anxious behavior in dogs usually results from various factors including people, other animals, places and situations.

Labradors long for companionship, time and attention from their owners. Leaving them unattended for long hours will most likely result to exhibition of unusual behavior such as incessant barking, digging, pacing scratching and many others. If not addressed properly, Labrador anxiety can greatly affect the development of a rewarding relationship between you and your pet.

Steps to Stop Labrador Anxiety:

Step One:

Be able to recognize Labrador anxiety through visible symptoms. This condition can result from various factors; however, the most triggering cause would be separation or lack of attention. Routine changes, new environment, improper nutrition and allergies can also contribute to the development of separation anxiety.

You will know if your pet is suffering from Labrador anxiety through the actions that he displays. Incessant barking, whining, howling, improper elimination, inactivity, and destructive behavior such as digging, scratching and chewing are some of the known signs of anxiety in Labs.

Step Two:

Seeing you leave the house can be a big deal for your pet. Making it look like such a big event will only increase risks of Labrador anxiety. Labradors tend to have a strong attachment with their owners. It is not recommended for you to give your pet any extra attention before leaving the house. It will only make your dog think that you might be away for long. Remember that your dog does not understand why you have to leave. For starters, there is a need for you to ensure him of your return every time you go out of the house.

You can also prevent Labrador anxiety by discouraging the anxious behavior. There is a high possibility that your dog will follow you around every time he sees you leaving. The best way to deal with this is through ignoring your dog for the first 10-30 minutes prior to your departure. When you return, repeat the process.

Step Three:

Prevent Labrador anxiety by keeping your pet occupied while you're gone. It is necessary to provide your pet with positive distractions to ease distress on his part. You can give him toys that stimulate mental activity to keep him busy. As you spend time with your pet, it will be easier for you to know what he wants and need.

Step Four:

Make sure your pet maintains a healthy, regular exercise routine. Physical and mental exercises are necessary to prevent Labrador anxiety. You can start by making your daily walks longer than usual or by lengthening your pet's playtime. This is a good way to relieve your dog from stress and tension. When your pet is tired, it will be easier for you to give off commands.

Step Five:

Stop Labrador anxiety by practicing short intervals of your departure and return. Start by leaving home for a few minutes. Stay out for a while then return home afterwards. Eventually, when your pet gets familiar with this routine, he will develop the confidence that you will definitely return after leaving the house. Do this daily by gradually increasing the length of time that you are away. Through this, your pet will no longer react negatively every time you leave.

Step Six:

Crate training is an essential tool in dealing with Labrador anxiety. Start by introducing your pet with a crate you prepared upon his arrival in your home. Make the crate look enticing enough for your dog to consider staying on it. During his first days with the crate, spend time with your pet and ensure him that the crate is a place he can enjoy with you. Play with your pet and feed him in his crate so that he can develop a positive attachment to it. Make him feel safe and secured in his own private space.

Step Seven:

Every method in dealing with Labrador anxiety requires repetition and consistency. Once you start training your Labrador in becoming a well-behaved pet, the process must keep going as he grows. Try exploring other training methods which may work well with you and your dog. Remember that Labradors are different from one another and a method that is successful for one may not be in the same case with another. Take time to search and find the most appropriate method that fits your dog's needs.

By following the steps listed above, you should be able to deal handle Labrador anxiety easily and effectively.

Marcus Stephens "The Dog Guy" has owned and trained dogs for over 20 years. He is the founder of the popular website "Labrador Obedience Problems". Get your FREE report that reveals how to stop your Labrador anxiety problems for good at=>
http://www.FixLabradorProblems.com/LabradorAnxiety