During the coronavirus pandemic, there has been an increase of around 2 million dogs in the United Kingdom. The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association assigns the increase in pup ownership to the growth of home office, and to loneliness in a lesser degree.
We are sure that the boom of dogs in large cities such as London has brought joy and happiness. However there are some issues that those new owners – and their families and friends – must bear in mind.
Due to the lack of habituation and socialisation during their childhood, the “pandemic puppies” may respond with fear once facing new stimuli. Visitors to the home and other dogs in a park may trigger aggressive behaviour.
Here are some tips to prevent your dog from panicking when facing the unexpected:
- Encourage them to spend more time alone, even if it’s in their bed or in a separate room;
- Set a period of time in your daily routine to interact with your puppy that you’ll be able to maintain in a long run;
- Use interactive toys to set boundaries on when your pooch can play with others;
- Start leaving the house without your dog for a few minutes and gradually increase the absence time and frequency so that they get used to being alone;
- Seek professional advice if you notice signs of behavioural issues such as aggressiveness, excessive howling and barking, destructive chewing, etc.
Day to day activities in daycare and while boarding will help your puppy deal with anxiety and fear, and increase their confidence when in a new environment. Book now!
