While they recognize tone, dogs don't connect your spoken words to being left alone.
Dogs Don't Understand Words
Subtle physical cues like grabbing keys or putting on shoes signal to dogs you're leaving.
Read Body Language
Calmly exiting without prolonged goodbyes prevents anticipatory anxiety.
Low-Key Departures
Give a puzzle toy stuffed with food when you leave to create good associations.
Give a Special Treat
Keep arrivals and departures low-key parts of everyday routines.
Maintain Normal Routine
Keep arrivals and departures low-key parts of everyday routines.
Maintain Normal Routine