STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

Metric · Gucci

Halleybird and anybody with more than 1 dog

halleybird · Hermes

Sully is very dependent on Halley (he follows her everywhere she goes, and if she has to go to the vet or something, he cries horribly to be left alone, and I can't take him for walks anymore, because he won't go without her), but not the other way around. They love to play together, but Halley was an only dog for 4 years, so she's much more independent. I don't really know how to help, but I *think* it's a confidence issue. Elle or someone with a lot of dog training experience can probably help you out on this, but I think you have to involve them in some separate activities so they can feel confident on their own. Hope that helps!

Elle · Hermes

I'd agree w/H-bird that alot of separate activities would likely build their confidence, especially pooch. IMO it's normal for them to be a little upset when the other isn't around, but you can train them to be functional instead of distraught like they are now!

I'd personally employ lots of treats and work on some easy training (positive reinforcement will help build confidence) with them individually, and maybe get a great new toy that they can only play with when they're apart. The point is to make being apart be kinda fun for them, even though they still miss their buddy! It'll probably be slow going at first, so I'd start with just treats and the toy. They might be hard to distract/engage but that should lessen as time goes on. And try not to make a big deal of it when one leaves and when they meet again - that's what they recommend for separation anxiety from people, too.

Pooch might benefit from a training class if you're into that - the socialization would probably be great for him

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