Will Atherton, who founded his own dog training academy, has shared a ‘simple’ way to cure separation anxiety in pets – and the method requires one key step before you leave the house
You can cure separation anxiety with this trick(Image: Getty Images)
If you’re among those who find it difficult leaving your dog at home alone, or worry about how they’re managing in your absence, a canine behaviour expert has offered crucial guidance.
Will Atherton, who established his own dog training academy, used TikTok to explain how you can “fix” separation anxiety. “Stopping separation anxiety before it ever starts is one of the biggest things you can do for your dog’s wellbeing,” he stated in a video. According to the expert, all it requires is one “simple” approach you must do before leaving the house.
He explained: “When a puppy learns from day one that the crate is a calm, safe place where they can relax on their own, you’re teaching them independence. They learn that being alone isn’t something to panic about – it’s just a normal part of life.”
On the flip side, allowing your pet excessive freedom can frequently worsen separation anxiety over time, something crate training prevents. “Where a lot of separation anxiety problems start is when puppies are never taught that skill,” Will went on.
He added: “They’re constantly with people, constantly getting attention, and then suddenly one day they’re expected to cope with being left alone… and they simply don’t know how.”
The crate training method centres on helping the dog recognise the crate as a secure and comfortable space, according to Will. He provided additional information in a YouTube video, highlighting you must begin by teaching your dog to appreciate its crate.
“We get so concerned about our dogs hating being left alone, so why don’t we work on our dogs loving being left alone?” Will said in his clip. But what steps can owners take to help their pets enjoy solo time in their crate?
“This is part of my strategy,” he revealed. “I get a Fenrir Hammer [chew toy] and fill it with treats and raw food – meat pâté works beautifully – and stick it in the freezer overnight.”
Will concluded by recommending that 10 to 15 minutes before departing his home, he positions the Fenrir Hammer inside the crate and secures the door.
“The dog can’t get into the crate,” he explained. “So then, you will notice over time that your dog will be excited to get in there.”
Incorporating this into your “leaving routine” – executed in a composed and unhurried fashion – will deliver significant results.
“Calmly open the crate door, allow your dog to enter it before closing the door and leaving means your dog will learn to be excited when being alone and having their favourite thing,” Will recommended.
