Life is filled with beauty and wonder, but—let’s be real here—it can also be super overwhelming sometimes. When you’ve truly reached your limit, nothing beats stealing away for a bit of alone time, giving you the opportunity to recharge with some peace and quiet.
Believe it or not, that happy-go-lucky mutt you call your best friend is built the same way. They love experiencing all the wonderful things life has to offer, but sometimes, it can become overwhelming, and your pup needs a place to get away and get it together.
That’s why we at Pawsitive K9 Solutions love recommending “safe spaces” for dogs, especially those with anxiety problems. We’ll cover what a safe space is, how to create one, and how to use it effectively for your favorite furry friend in the post below!
What is a Safe Space?
Where’s that special place you hide away when you’re looking for a little alone time? For many of us, it’s our bedroom: the one place where we know we can always close the door, cuddle up under some blankets, put on our favorite music, movies, or TV shows, and just let the bad feelings run their course and wash away.
It’s the same for your pup. They want a place they know they can retreat when it all becomes too much, a place where they know no one will disturb them while they nap, chew on a toy, cuddle their favorite stuffed animal, or do whatever it is that’ll make them feel better again.
How to Create a Safe Space for Your Dog
We know the things that give us comfort, but what about your puppy pal? What you can incorporate in their safe space depends on the specific dog, but there are a few things that most dogs seem to get comfort from.
Here are a few quick tips for setting up a safe space for your dog.
1. Location, Location, Location
Where you set up the safe space is equally if not more important than the space’s features, as you want to create it in a spot that you know they’ll love to visit.
Where does your dog like to go? Do they have a certain room or spot they like to retire to at certain times throughout the day?
The answer will vary completely depending on your dog. Some like getting cuddly on the bed, others go to the couch downstairs, and still others choose a doormat, bathmat, or pile of laundry.
Wherever you find that precious pooch throughout the day gives you the best ideas for where to set up their safe space.
2. Add Creature Comforts for Anxious Dogs
Once you’ve picked out the perfect place for your pup, it’s time to make it super cozy. Give them pillows, cushions, blankets, or whatever other things they tend to enjoy.
Whatever comfort items you provide, use them before you give them away. Take a nap with the blankets and pillows you plan to give to your dog. This way, they get a comfy item that also carries your scent, so they know that, even if you’re not home, they can still smell you and be comforted by you in your absence.
3. How About Some Entertainment?
So, setting up a tablet with Netflix and other streaming platforms probably will only elicit a bewildered stare from your dog, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on entertainment.
Toys, puzzles, games, and more can provide an activity to your pup, helping relieve boredom and anxiety by giving them something more appropriate to focus on.
How to Use a Safe Space
First and foremost, your dog should recognize the safe space as, well, safe. Using it as a punishment defeats the purpose of setting it up in the first place, so be judicious with how you use the space.
Ideally, it will be there for your dog when they choose to use it, and that’s it. You, the other household members, and any guests should be aware that they are not to engage your dog if they retreat to the safe space. Instead, we want them to come out when they feel ready for socializing and engagement.
Contact Us Today
Overall, creating and using a safe space for your dog is simple and straightforward, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t certain pitfalls that well-meaning owners may fall into. No worries; we have your back!
While setting up safe spaces isn’t one of the many services we offer, we are professionals well-versed in canine psychology, so we’re always happy to discuss strategies for managing your dog’s anxiety and helping them find positive outlets to express it.
So, don’t wait; contact us today and find out more!
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