Mary Allen
Introduction: Understanding Dog Behavior After Boarding
Boarding facilities are often a necessary option for pet owners who need to travel, but the experience of being away from their owners can be stressful for dogs. Unfamiliar surroundings and the absence of their owners can cause dogs to display odd behaviors after they return home. It is important for pet owners to recognize these behaviors and take steps to ease their dog’s transition back to their normal routine.
Separation Anxiety: A Common Cause for Odd Behavior
Separation anxiety is a common cause of odd behavior in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive behavior, and restlessness. These behaviors can be especially pronounced after being separated from their owners for an extended period of time, such as during a stay at a boarding facility.
Pet owners can help ease their dog’s separation anxiety by gradually acclimating them to being apart. Leaving the dog alone for short periods of time and gradually increasing the duration can help them adjust to being away from their owner. Additionally, providing the dog with a comfortable and familiar environment, such as their own bed or toys, can help ease their anxiety.
Stress-Related Behaviors in Dogs After Boarding
Stress-related behaviors, such as pacing, shaking, and panting, can be another common cause of odd behavior in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. These behaviors may be a result of the unfamiliar surroundings and routines, as well as the lack of interaction with their owners.
To help alleviate stress-related behaviors, pet owners can provide their dogs with plenty of exercise and playtime, as well as a comfortable and familiar environment. Additionally, spending extra time with the dog and providing them with positive reinforcement can help ease their stress and anxiety.
Fear and Aggression Due to Boarding Experience
Some dogs may display fear or aggression after being kept in a boarding facility. This can be a result of a negative experience, such as being bullied by other dogs or experiencing harsh treatment from the staff. These behaviors can be especially concerning, as they can be dangerous for both the dog and their owners.
Pet owners should closely monitor their dog’s behavior after being kept in a boarding facility and seek professional help if necessary. A certified dog behaviorist can help identify the cause of the fear or aggression and provide strategies for addressing the behavior.
Change in Eating Habits and Digestive Problems
Changes in eating habits, such as loss of appetite or overeating, can be another common behavioral issue in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. Digestive problems, such as diarrhea or constipation, may also occur as a result of stress or a change in diet.
To help ease digestive issues, pet owners should gradually reintroduce their dog’s normal diet after returning home. Additionally, providing plenty of water and monitoring the dog’s bowel movements can help identify any potential health issues.
Excessive Barking and Vocalization After Boarding
Excessive barking and vocalization can be another common behavioral issue in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. This may be a result of separation anxiety, stress, or a lack of socialization with other dogs.
Pet owners can help address excessive barking and vocalization by providing their dog with plenty of exercise and socialization opportunities. Additionally, providing a comfortable and familiar environment, such as their own bed or toys, can help ease their anxiety and reduce their need to vocalize.
Unusual Sleeping Patterns and Restlessness
Unusual sleeping patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness, can be another behavioral issue in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. Restlessness and pacing may also occur as a result of stress or anxiety.
Pet owners can help ease their dog’s restlessness and unusual sleeping patterns by providing a comfortable and familiar environment. Additionally, providing plenty of exercise and playtime can help tire the dog out and promote healthy sleeping habits.
Increased Destructive Behavior After Boarding
Increased destructive behavior, such as chewing or scratching furniture, can be another behavioral issue in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. This may be a result of separation anxiety or stress-related behaviors.
To help address destructive behavior, pet owners should provide their dog with plenty of exercise and playtime, as well as a comfortable and familiar environment. Additionally, providing the dog with plenty of chew toys and positive reinforcement when they engage in appropriate behavior can help redirect their destructive tendencies.
Onset of Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors in Dogs
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors, such as excessive licking or pawing, can be another behavioral issue in dogs after being kept in a boarding facility. These behaviors may be a result of stress or anxiety, or may be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Pet owners should closely monitor their dog’s behavior after being kept in a boarding facility and seek professional help if necessary. A certified dog behaviorist can help identify the cause of the obsessive-compulsive behavior and provide strategies for addressing the behavior.
Reestablishing Routine and Familiarity After Boarding
Reestablishing a routine and providing a familiar environment can be crucial in helping dogs adjust after being kept in a boarding facility. This can include providing the dog with their own bed or toys, as well as gradually reintroducing them to their normal routine.
Pet owners should also provide plenty of exercise and playtime, as well as positive reinforcement, to help ease their dog’s transition back to their normal routine.
Addressing Post-Boarding Behavioral Issues in Dogs
Addressing post-boarding behavioral issues in dogs can be a challenging process, but it is important for pet owners to take steps to help their dog adjust. This may include seeking professional help from a certified dog behaviorist, providing plenty of exercise and playtime, and creating a comfortable and familiar environment.
With patience and dedication, pet owners can help their dogs overcome post-boarding behavioral issues and return to their normal routines.
Conclusion: Helping Your Dog Adjust After Boarding
Being kept in a boarding facility can be a stressful experience for dogs, but with the right strategies and support, pet owners can help their dogs adjust and return to their normal routines. It is important for pet owners to recognize the signs of post-boarding behavioral issues and take steps to address them, such as providing plenty of exercise and playtime, creating a comfortable and familiar environment, and seeking professional help if necessary.
By working with their dogs and providing them with the support they need, pet owners can help ensure a smooth transition back to their normal routine after being kept in a boarding facility.