Listening to a dog cry is heartbreaking, especially when you know you can calm them down. However, no matter how hard you try, you can't be with them 24 hours a day. The RSPCA has issued advice on how owners can help treat their dog's separation anxiety as children return to schools and their parents return to the office after a much-needed summer holiday.
While some dog training guides suggest leaving them to 'cry it out', the RSPCA has slammed this technique as it is "neurologically damaging", as the organisation says that "dog and puppies left to cry it out will only learn that being alone is terrifying". A statement warns: "Working out why your dog reacts badly to being left alone can be tricky. Especially, as research shows that half of dogs suffering from separation-related behaviour won't show any signs when you're with them."
