How to get a re-homed rescue dog feel more secure and be able to leave them in the house for short periods of time by themselves?

[warmandwooly]

Says it all in the title really. Any tips?

start off with short periods of time in the house. start with 5 minutes and increase over a few weeks.

lots of socialisation too will help, lots of positive rewards, praise, treats etc

Thanks. That's what I thought might help but wasn't sure how to do it.

If you have literally just got the dog let things be very relaxed, do not walk them, or let them have the free run of the whole house - just let them get used to being for a while. Do not pander to them or feel sorry for their past but be a non demanding owner and give them time to settle.

Depending on the dog some you can leave straight away others may need to learn to be left in a room for a second and then you return. Watch your dog and learn from them what they need. Do get the dog to be happy in the house in a room on its own when you are in the house before you go out an leave it unattended. Always return to the dog before it gets stressed and then you will have a happy chilled dog

Our whippet was crated when left for the first 9 months we had him - otherwise, even with only a 5 minute trip out, he would destroy whatever was in easy reach. Being in the crate seemed to help him feel secure and over time it has been possible to allow him more freedom in the house whilst we are out.

Crate if possible with things to occupy. I get mine used to sleeping in a crate at night time at first so they associate with routine, sleep and nothing bad. I get a massive one even though I have small dogs so they have loads of space but are still contained.

Make sure you get toys he cant destroy or swallow!! A heavy duty kong stuffed with biscuits and a small amount of squirty cheese can keep a dog occupied for ages if hes food motivated!!

A dap collar with dog appeasing pheremones may help he feel happier, so might kalmaid or zylkene.

Lots of exercise before being left can help encourage the dog to sleep through your absence though that of course depends on the level of anxiety!

Good luck, iv been through it and they do (ime!) get there in the end