Who has seperation anxiety? You or her?

Earlier today, Copley's Auntie Andrea texted me asking if she could take Copley overnight and then to play at my mom's tomorrow.  As crazy as it sounds, I actually had to think about it because I knew that I'd miss her tonight.  I just love cuddling with my bug after a long day at work. 

Andrea and Travis came over for dinner and Copley was thrilled to see them.  And, she very willingly jumped in the car.  Off they went.   

So, I started thinking.  Who has a harder time with separation anxiety....me or Copley?

Honestly, Copley doesn't have separation anxiety at all.  I made sure she was used to new situations, people, and being away from me at a very young age.  It doesn't matter if you have a puppy or an adult, it is important to make sure they have confidence (with out you).  Here are some things to try:

Pass the Pooch:
Have you ever asked someone to hold your dog's leash while you (fill in the blank) tied your shoe, got something out of the car, ran into a store, and so on?  Does your dog pull away from them and towards you?  If so, that's not good.

Start playing pass the pooch.  Every time you are out with your dog ask a friend to hold their leash.  Make sure your friend has treats.  Ideally, your friend could put them in a sit stay.  But at a minimum, have them give them treats and make it fun and special.  Getting your dog comfortable won't happen overnight.  Keeping working at it.

If you have a new puppy: get as many people as possible to hold him/her.  Literally, pass the puppy.  This will get your pup used to being handled by and with other people.

Walk Out Of Sight:
This skill is one of the elements of passing your CGC (Canine Good Citizen Test).  Your dog needs to stay with a total stranger for 3-minutes while you are out of sight.  They can't jump, whine, or pull. 

This game is really just taking Pass the Pooch to a new level - you leave.  Start with hiding behind a tree or shed for 30 seconds and work your way up.  When you return to your pet, treat them.  Reinforce that you're coming back.  It'll help them relax.

Send them on an Overnight Stay:
At some point, you are going to take a vacation.  The sooner you get your dog familiar with their overnight care - the better.  Most kennels don't take dogs until they are 6 months old.  But, if you can stand it...I recommend you send your pup away overnight so both of you get used to being away from each other.

If you are lucky like me and have friends or family members who will take care of your pet, send your dog on an overnight stay to get them used to the environment and people.  Also, this is a good test to see if that friend/family member is up to the task of taking care of your pet for a whole week.

Also, be sure to pack their favorites.  Reference my guide to an overnight stay.

Other things you can try:

• Let a friend or neighbor take your dog for a walk
• Drop your dog off at a friends house for a few hours - best if they have a playmate
• Try doggie daycare for a day or two
• Take a training class and ask another student if you can switch dogs for the class
• If you do agility, trying handling a different dog.  Let your dog try a new handler

Beginning with a strong foundation and getting your pet comfortable with new environments will give them confidence with or without you.  Pets that can accomplish the tricks above are less likely to have during-the-day separation anxiety.  But, that's a different topic for another day.

What tips/trick have you tried to make your dog confident?