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How do I calm my dog down when dog sitting?

Constance Brown
Constance Brown
2025-06-24 01:48:40
Count answers : 13
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Long, gentle strokes down the back seems to work wonders for my dog. Find this pup's weak spot: behind the ears, down the back, his underside, and see if that relaxes him. Did the owner bring a favorite toy, dog bed, dog blanket or something with the owners' scent, something with the owners' scent really helps new stays settle in. When anxious they will sniff/snuggle in/on it. Depending on the size of the dog, it may help to put on soft music and snuggle with the pup. Often the best solution is exercise, however, that doesn't always help dogs settle down right away, you may want to just send a quick message to the owner that their dog really misses them, you really want to make their dog comfortable, and ask if they can provide any suggestions. Make sure he has access to food and water and leave a toy nearby as it may smell like home. Dogs are also super sense sensitive, so the more comfortable you become, the easier it will be for him to calm down and settle in.
Raven Nienow
Raven Nienow
2025-06-18 12:01:02
Count answers : 7
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To calm a dog down when dog sitting, a tired dog is a good dog, so going out for a walk that is a combination of nose work and cardio can be helpful. The walks should also be in the daytime as that vitamin D is helpful for dogs that are anxious. Stuffing KONGs and puzzle toys can also be a great solution for anxious pets. ThunderShirts are a great solution for anxious pets, and these are also made for cats. Using Comfort Zone plug-ins and sprays in the environment can help ease anxiety, so mentioning this to the owner before they leave can be beneficial. Playing music during the visit and leaving on a TV or trying music players available at icalmpet.com can also be calming. Always closing the blinds or curtains while at the house and making sure the anxious dog doesn’t have access to large windows if they like to bark at other dogs or the mailman can decrease the overall stress level. House sits or longer drop-in visits will help reduce separation anxiety, and keeping the dog company by spending the day and possibly the evening in the house can be beneficial. Low Stress Handling is key during the visit, and being aware of how to provide a calming effect through touch can be helpful. Before the trip, asking pet owners to keep their behavior when they leave the house super low-key can also help, by practicing putting on their coat but instead of leaving, watching something on their iPads for example, to teach the pet that these triggers don’t represent leaving the house which starts that anxiety.
Gustave Carroll
Gustave Carroll
2025-06-08 08:34:52
Count answers : 10
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Spending time together is one of the best methods for supporting a dog with separation anxiety. Your presence as their dog sitter will be reassuring and prevent them from feeling alone. Spend time doing all the things they love, such as walks, playing games, and practising tricks to help distract them from their caregiver’s absence. On the whole, it’s best to avoid leaving them on their own. ThunderShirts are also a popular pet caregiver’s choice for supporting their nervous dog. These anxiety vests for dogs essentially act as a calming wrap for your dog in stressful situations. Find out in advance when your four-legged friend likes to wear theirs, and where it’s kept. For a quick treat when on the go, ADAPTIL Calming Chews are a great solution. Not only do dogs love the taste but they offer a quick response to appease them in times of increased stress. Our ADAPTIL Calm Diffusers for dogs are also a great idea. Simply plug this in near to their bed and let the natural calming messages take effect. Make sure the home has a safe place for the dog to rest in. Nervous dogs often find comfort in these “safe space” areas. If you are house sitting too, this will be their familiar space, so it is important to respect their bed/resting areas as places they can go to and be undisturbed.
Madaline Renner
Madaline Renner
2025-05-29 17:38:25
Count answers : 5
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To help you and your dog learn basic training techniques, it might be worth enrolling in some dog training lessons. Reward relaxed behaviours. To begin with you may just need to reward your dog for any behaviour that doesn’t involve staring at you, pulling on the lead, or barking. Sit quietly on a chair with your dog on the lead and a blanket on the floor. Drop tiny bite-size treats to your dog as a reward for settling down on the blanket. Don’t say anything to your dog while doing this. Gradually reward more relaxed behaviours. Always make sure your dog is having a good time when settling, whether enjoying their toys, chews, or simply dozing and snoozing. Once your dog starts to get the hang of it and is shifting their weight so they’re comfortable and relaxed, you can start practising with them off lead.