Ask Anna, Your local Vet
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Hi Anna,
We have a new puppy (Labrador called Simmy) We have had him for four weeks but he seems unable to settle at night time. We have followed the advice given to us by the breeder however he still seems to need us constantly - do you have any advice for us or can you tell us how long we can expect this to go on for? Henlow Veterinary Centre 22 Bedford Road Lower Stondon Beds SG16 6EA (01462) 416416 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am - 18.30pm Sat 9am -12 noon
Hi, thank you for your question; I'm sure it is one that resonates with lots of us who have had or had puppies. I remember my first puppy being like this, and it felt like it would never end, but rest assured that this period does pass! Firstly, I would recommend that Simmy has his own safe place to go to, both in the day and at night times. This is a spot where he is left alone by family members and other animals if you have any. It needs to be inviting and comfy. A soft familiar blanket and a cuddly toy will all help. This area could be a crate, or a hidey hole under the stairs. If this isn't possible then provide a lovely bed with the toys in and make sure it's left in the same place.
24hr Emergency Service Simmy should be given treats when he goes to this place and he shouldn't be put there as a punishment.
Henlow Veterinary Centre Ltd
8
The next thing to do is practice leaving Simmy in his safe place for a few minutes at a time. Encourage him in with treats, then when he is settled, provide him with a chew, snuffle mat or a frozen Kong, and let him lick at it. When he's distracted walk away. DO NOT make a fuss of him before walking away, this only makes the separation worse! Gradually lengthen the amount of time that you spend away, from a few minutes to an hour, and reward Simmy when you come back if he is settled. However if he is jumping and whining only pet him when he has calmed, so you are reinforcing the positive behaviour. If you do all this in the day, its essentially the same process at night. In the time before bedtime he needs to learn to settle, and remmebr do not make a big thing of leaving! So maybe a treat, into bed, cuddles, then sit in same room whilst Simmi is in his cage, then when settled walk away. If Simmi barks in the night some people would recommend leaving him, but very young dogs do need to go out to the toilet at 2-3am. If this is the case go to him, allow him to do his business, then follow the same calm routine before going back to bed. If he whines once you put him back then you do need to leave him as this is then barking for attention. I would also recommend buying an appeasing pheremone collar or plug-in for Sammi. There is a fully reserached and proven product called Adaptil, which has no sideeffects. In combination with the above plan it will really help Sammi to adjust to his new routine more quickly.I hope the above helps and Good Luck! Anna Marshall-Brown MA VetMB CertSAM MRCVS
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