Guide to Puppy Food: Nourishing Your Pup for Growth

How Can I Make My Dog Less Lonely When I Have to Work All Day?

We’ve all been there: the moment you grab your keys, and instantly, your dog’s ears droop, their head lowers, and those big puppy eyes lock onto yours. It’s as if they are asking, “Are you really going to leave me?” For loving pet parents, this moment often carries a lot of guilt.We love our dogs deeply, and our ultimate goal is to give them the best possible life. Yet, the demands of a working life (to finance their vet bills, high-quality food, etc.) mean hours spent away from your best friend. Providing the best life for our pups means addressing the heart of this problem: loneliness and separation anxiety. It’s not enough for our dogs to merely survive the 8 or 9 hours we are gone; they deserve to feel genuinely comfortable and content in their home, even when we aren’t there.This post will help you move past the guilt and equip you with the knowledge and practical steps necessary to ensure your dog is peaceful, happy, and confident while you’re away.Understanding the Problem: Loneliness vs. Separation AnxietyBefore we can help our dogs, we must fully understand what they are experiencing. Is it simply a case of missing us, or is it something more serious? The strategies we use to manage loneliness and boredom are very different from the complex intervention that will be needed if they are dealing with clinical Separation Anxiety (SA). It’s crucial to understand the difference between these two. If we treat a panic disorder like simple boredom, we won’t be able to address the root cause and improve their situation. Loneliness and boredom are a milder, more common form of discomfort. The dog misses you. They might pace for a few minutes after you leave, sigh dramatically, or settle down to nap most of the day. When you return, they are happy, but their behavior while you were gone is generally non-destructive (beyond maybe chewing a forbidden shoe out of pure boredom), and they are usually quiet. If this is their struggle, they are expressing a need for mental enrichment and connection. Clinical separation anxiety is a very real and debilitating panic disorder. Your dog is not mad or being spiteful; they are experiencing a full-blown panic attack because they believe they have been abandoned or separated permanently from “their person” (you). This intense fear triggers distress-driven, destructive behaviors that start immediately or within minutes of leaving.  Signs of True Panic If you see any of the following behaviors, especially starting shortly after they have been left alone, your dog is likely suffering from separation anxiety and not just loneliness: Destructive Behavior Focused on Exit Points: The dog’s destruction is often aimed at escaping the confined space. They may chew through door frames, scratch heavily at doors, or break out of windows or crates. This is not casual chewing; it’s a desperate attempt to escape and get back to you. Excessive, Sustained Vocalization: This involves intense, non-stop howling, barking, or whining that begins within minutes of you leaving and continues until you return. A short bark at the postman is normal; an hour of desperate howling is not. Inappropriate Elimination: This is when a previously potty-trained dog has accidents indoors only when left home alone. Because the dog is panicking, they lose control of their bodily functions. This is often accompanied by other signs of distress. Pacing, Drooling, or Frantic Behavior: If you monitor your dog with a camera, you may see them pacing obsessively, panting excessively, or drooling far more than usual. These are all common signs of severe anxiety. Why This Difference Matters Understanding this difference is critical if you’re going to help your pup. If your dog has separation anxiety, training to stop barking or providing a new toy may appear to solve the problem, but it doesn’t address the root cause: overwhelming fear.  If you suspect your dog is struggling with separation anxiety, your immediate goal shifts from simply managing their behavior to relieving genuine distress and suffering. This condition means they are experiencing serious, chronic stress, which can impact their long-term health. While this is a problem that needs to be addressed, it’s also an opportunity to strengthen your bond. By correctly identifying the cause and seeking appropriate help (which may involve vet appointments and work with certified behaviorists), you show your dog that they can count on you. You position yourself as a reliable, calming presence, even when you aren’t physically present. This strengthens their trust and ultimately helps them feel safer when alone. Pre-Departure and Arrival Rituals The time immediately before you leave and the moment you return are surprisingly the most critical for your dog’s emotional state and well-being. By managing these transitional moments, we can significantly reduce the anticipation and anxiety your dog feels when you reach for your keys. The goal is to make your departure and arrival as boring and routine as possible. Departure Cues Most dogs are brilliant observers. They learn to associate a whole series of actions with the fact that we are about to leave. The jingling of keys, the sound of the garage door opening, or the rustling of a jacket are all signals that trigger immediate anxiety and distress, sometimes up to 20 minutes before you even walk out the door. The best way to reduce the impact of these triggers is to separate them from this perceived meaning. Go about your usual “get ready to leave” routine at random times throughout the day, even on weekends, without leaving your home. Grab your keys, walk to the door, put them back, and sit down. Put on your coat, walk into the next room, and then take it off. By doing this multiple times daily, you teach your dog that these actions don’t always mean you’re leaving, helping to lower their overall anxiety level. Another important consideration is your goodbye. The long, dramatic, guilt-ridden goodbye (“Oh, I’m so sorry, sweetie, I’ll miss you so much!”) is actually counterproductive. It amps up your dog’s emotions, making your departure a bigger source of stress and anxiety. When you do leave, aim for a quiet, short, three-second goodbye, or even no verbal goodbye at all. The key is to leave when your dog is already calm or, better yet, engaged in a high-value activity (I’ll cover that below).

London Tube Encourages Travel with Pets... Cat Charity, No So Much

It’s a cat fight in London where transit authorities are encouraging travellers to include pets in their outings, while a Cat Protection charity is pushing back. Would you take public transit with your pet?

5 Common Bunny Health Issues and How to Prevent Them

Rabbits are adorable, affectionate, and popular pets, but like any animal, they can face health challenges. Understanding common bunny health issues and taking steps to prevent them is key to keeping your furry friend happy and thriving. Here are five common health problems in rabbits and practical ways to prevent them.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Tips for Looking After Somebody Else's Dog

Taking care of someone else’s dog can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with responsibilities. Every dog has its own personality and habits, so even if you’re experienced with your own pet, another dog may have different needs. Whether you’re dog-sitting for a friend, family member, or colleague, these tips will help make the experience safe, enjoyable, and stress-free for both you and the dog.

Why Is My Dog Suddenly Losing So Much Fur?

If you’ve noticed your dog shedding more than usual, it can be concerning. While some shedding is normal, especially during seasonal changes, sudden or excessive fur loss can sometimes signal an underlying problem. Understanding the possible causes can help you take the right steps to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

3 Common Pet Risks to Watch Out For This Fall

Fall brings cooler weather, shorter days, and holiday celebrations. For pets, autumn can also mean new challenges that owners should be mindful of. From foods that can be harmful to outdoor hazards and seasonal allergies, here are three risks to keep an eye on this fall.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet Degu

If you’ve ever wanted a pet that’s as curious as a squirrel but as social as a guinea pig, you might want to meet the degu. These small rodents from Chile aren’t as common as hamsters or rabbits, but for the right person they make engaging, lively companions. Before you dive in, though, there are a few important things to know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Is a Degu a Good Pet for Children?

Furry, cuddly, fun... and you don't have to walk them. What could be easier?

Which Cat Breeds Are The Most Expensive?

While many cats can be adopted from shelters for a small fee, some purebred cats command staggering prices due to their rarity, unique appearance, or specific breeding requirements. If you’re curious about the most expensive cat breeds, here’s a quick guide to some of the priciest felines in the world.

5 Bathroom Items To Always Keep Away From Your Pets

Bathrooms can be full of hidden hazards for our pets. Curious cats and dogs can easily get into things that could make them sick, or worse, if left within reach. Here are five common bathroom items you should always keep away from your furry friends.Please note that this isn’t an exhaustive list, just a few key items to be aware of.

The Cleaning Upgrade Every Pet-Friendly Home Needs

Get rid of pet hair, dust, and dander before the new year hits and step into 2026 with a home that feels fresh.Mess doesn’t wait for a convenient moment , especially in busy homes with pets. One minute the floors are spotless, and the next there’s fur drifting across the carpet, crumbs under the table, and dust settling onto the floorboards. That’s why the BISSELL PowerClean® FurFinder™ Stick Vacuum is built for real life cleaning. It’s designed to handle the constant cycle of pet hair, dander, and daily debris, so your home can stay fresh without turning clean-up into a full production.

Pet Cam Captures the Moment Dogs Invite in Unexpected Guests

When you prepare to leave the house, even for a few hours, you likely have a careful routine. You ensure your pets are fed, exercised, and that their environment is enriched to prevent boredom or accidents. You carefully put away anything they shouldn’t chew and ensure all necessary barriers are firmly closed, confident that your preparation will guarantee a safe and peaceful time while you are gone. But what happens when all that preparation goes out the window in a moment as your pets open the door, welcoming in some unlikely friends for an impromptu house party? That’s the very real, very hilarious scenario that recently unfolded for Australian politician Andrew Mackay. Mackay, who lives on a rural property, was out enjoying a quiet dinner with his partner when he decided to check his pet-cam feed, a common move for loving pet parents. However, he couldn’t have predicted what he would see! Moving across the screen of his indoor pet cam wasn’t just his two dogs, but the unmistakable head of a bull. The security cam footage, which Mackay shared on his Facebook page (and has since generated thousands of shares across platforms, with popular news outlets like CTV sharing the content on TikTok), captured the unlikely escapade. The primary culprits? His two dogs, with his resourceful mutt, Thunder, leading the charge.

These Are The Top 3 Mistakes New Puppy Owners Make

Bringing a puppy home is exciting, but it can also be a challenge. They need plenty of guidance, patience, and consistency, and even the most well-meaning owners can slip up. Here are the three most common mistakes new puppy parents make and how to avoid them.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

7 Important Things to Consider When Getting a Pet Lizard

Lizards can make fascinating pets. With their unique personalities, vibrant colors, and intriguing behaviors, they’re a step away from the typical dog or cat. But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s take a look at some key things to consider. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Fall Activities for Dogs!

With cooler temperatures, this is the best time of year to take the pooch for a long walk, engage in outdoor activity, or simply snuggle in at home.

Why Your Hamster Keeps Chewing On Its Cage Bars

Does your hamster keep gnawing on the bars of its cage? Many owners notice this behavior and wonder what it means. Figuring out why your tiny friend is chewing can help you create a happier, healthier home.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How Often Should You Clean a Rat Cage?

Rats are clean, intelligent pets - but they still need a tidy environment to stay healthy. A dirty cage can lead to unpleasant smells, bacterial buildup, and even health issues, especially respiratory problems. Knowing how often to clean a rat cage - and how to do it right - is a key part of responsible rat care.Daily: Spot CleaningYou don’t need to deep-clean your rats’ cage every day, but daily spot cleaning is essential. This includes:Removing soiled bedding or litterWiping up urine or droppingsCleaning food dishes if neededThese quick, daily tasks help control odors and reduce the buildup of waste, making weekly cleanings faster and more effective. Plus, a cleaner cage helps keep your rats comfortable and less prone to illness.