As the winter chill sets in and the days grow shorter, for those with particularly strong foresight (or a desperate need for escapism, of course), now feels like the perfect time to start planning for the sunnier days ahead.
As you get lost in the nether regions of Skyscanner searches or Anthony Bourdain outtakes for inspiration, the colder months also represent the ideal opportunity to prepare your furry friend for the adventures to come. After all, our pets are part of the family, and their comfort is just as important as ours.
So, how can you train your dog to be less stressed on holiday? Here’s how; these practical tips and techniques to ensure your canine companion is as relaxed and ready for summer as you are. Here’s how to train your dog to be less stressed on holiday.
Before The Holiday
The hard work starts here. To truly prepare your dog for a streefree holiday, it’s important to begin the training well in advance. Here’s how…
Understanding Your Dog’s Stresses & Triggers
Before we dive into the training techniques, it’s crucial to understand what might be causing your dog’s stress. Changes in environment, long car rides, unfamiliar faces, or simply breaking from their routine can all contribute to your dog’s anxiety. Recognising these triggers is the first step towards helping your dog cope better with travel.
Gradual Exposure
One of the most effective ways to reduce your dog’s stress is through gradual exposure. Start by taking your dog on short trips to local parks or nearby towns. This will help them get used to travelling and experiencing new environments. Gradually increase the duration and distance of these trips, always ensuring your dog is comfortable and at ease.
Training & Commands
As the experts at Southend Dog Training recommend, training your dog to respond to certain commands can be incredibly helpful in managing their stress. Commands like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, or ‘quiet’ can help your dog feel more in control and less anxious in unfamiliar situations. Remember, consistency is key in training.
Establish A Routine
In the months leading up to your holiday, it’s beneficial to establish a routine with your dog. This could include regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions. Once your dog is accustomed to this routine, try to maintain it as closely as possible while on holiday. This consistency can help reduce your dog’s stress by providing a sense of familiarity amidst the new surroundings.
Socialisation
Socialising your dog with other animals and people can significantly reduce their stress levels. Start by introducing your dog to friends and family members who they don’t see regularly. You can also arrange playdates with other dogs, or simply let them get to know other canine companions when you’re out strolling. This will help your dog become more comfortable around unfamiliar faces, reducing their anxiety when they encounter new people or animals on holiday.
Practice Separation
If you plan to leave your dog alone in a holiday home or hotel room, it’s essential to prepare them for this. Start by leaving your dog alone at home for short periods, gradually increasing the duration. This will help your dog become accustomed to being alone and reduce their stress when you’re out exploring on your holiday.
Desensitisation To Travel
If your dog gets stressed during car rides or flights, start desensitising them to these experiences. For car rides, start with short trips around the block, gradually increasing the duration and distance. For flights, play airplane sounds at home to get your dog used to the noise. You can also use a crate for these exercises to mimic the experience of being in a plane’s cargo hold.
Visit The Vet
A few months before your holiday, schedule a visit to the vet. They can check your dog’s overall health and provide advice on managing stress. They might also recommend calming aids or medication if necessary.
Trial Run
Consider doing a trial run by taking a short holiday or weekend getaway with your dog, ideally to a dog-friendly hotel where they’ll get properly pampered! This will give you a chance to see how your dog reacts and identify any potential issues that need addressing before the main holiday.
Consult A Professional
If your dog’s stress levels continue to be high despite your best efforts, it might be time to consult a professional. A vet or a professional dog trainer can provide personalised advice and strategies to help your dog cope better.
During The Holiday
There’s plenty you can do during the holiday, too, to keep your dog chilled out and loving life…
Create A Comfort Zone
Dogs are creatures of habit, and they find comfort in familiarity. When on holiday, bring along their favourite toys, blankets, or even their bed. This will create a sense of familiarity and comfort, reducing their stress levels, even in the face of hustle and bustle.
Keep Calm & Carry On
Dogs are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on our emotions. If you’re stressed or anxious, your dog is likely to mirror these feelings. So, keep calm, maintain a positive attitude, and your dog will follow suit.
Maintain Regular Exercise
Even while on holiday, it’s important to keep your dog active and engaged. Regular exercise can help burn off excess energy, reduce anxiety and contribute to your dog’s overall sense of wellbeing. Try to stick to your dog’s usual exercise routine as closely as possible, whether that’s a morning jog, an afternoon game of fetch, or an evening walk.
Use Calming Aids
There are various calming aids available that can help reduce your dog’s stress. These include pheromone diffusers, calming treats, and anxiety wraps. These can be particularly useful during travel or when staying in a new environment. Always consult your vet before introducing any new calming aids to your dog’s routine.
Provide Plenty Of Distractions
Keeping your dog distracted can help reduce their stress levels. Bring along a variety of toys, chews, and puzzles to keep your dog entertained. This can be particularly useful if you need to leave your dog alone for a period of time.
The Bottom Line
As we hunker down for the winter, let’s use this time wisely to prepare our dogs for the summer holidays. With patience, consistency, and a lot of love, you can train your dog to be less stressed on holiday. So when the sun finally shines, you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxing, stress-free holiday together.
Remember, a soothed dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for a fantastic holiday companion. So, let’s start training today for a soothing summer tomorrow!
