Preparation for separation is vital. If you leave it until the morning of your first day back at the office, you could cause undue stress and anxiety for your already confused pup, and after all they’ve done for you recently!

We Need Space

All great relationships require a little bit of space from time to time, including the ones with our furry friends. Teach your dog to sleep in a separate room to get her used to spending the day apart.

1. First, make sure she has an inviting and comfortable sleeping space. This orthopedic bed from Chewy will give your dog something to look forward to at bed time. Or try this covered bed to help her feel as snug as a Pug in a rug, even without your usual nap-time hug.
2. Then, lead her to the new bed and praise her when you get there. If she finds her way back to you, make sure not to reward or encourage her. She might feel so awkward that she goes back to the place with the treats and cozy digs.

Your pooch will try to pull on your heartstrings to get back in your bed, but don’t give into whining. This will only make it harder for both of you. In the end, you’ll appreciate the space and she’ll find her days at home easier to manage.

I Don’t Even Know You Anymore

The first thing you’ll want to do when you get home from work is smother your dog with hugs and kisses. Unfortunately, this is the last thing you should do if you want to make the transition smoother. The less of a big deal your exits and entrances are, the less worked up your pup will get when he sees you after some time apart.

Aren’t You Tired Of Me Yet?

Fido is likely to behave better after expending plenty of energy. Before you depart the house for an extended period, take him on as long a walk as possible. People who have fenced backyards can also play fetch with their furry friends or let them loose in their homemade dog park.

Keeping your best friend busy while you’re gone is a healthy way to make the separation more bearable. Here are a few simple ways to focus Fido’s attention on something other than the human-shaped hole in his life.

All You Do Is Watch TV

It’s always fun to see your pooch's ears prick up when a dog barks during your favorite TV show. With DOGTV, this happens constantly. Set the canine streaming service to play while you’re out of the house, and let your dog binge-watch shows designed to stimulate his senses and keep him company.

A Room With a View

Sometimes, all it takes to calm your dog down is something to let her know she’s not alone. Open the blinds and let her see outside onto the neighborhood or backyard. It’s amazing how many hours she’ll pass watching time and local squirrels go by. Another way to bring your canine closer to the outdoors is by installing a doggy door. For security- and style-conscious pet owners with fenced-in backyards, this high-tech dog door includes an electronic collar, so your pooch can come and go but nobody else can.

Treat Me!

Certain dogs need a little help reaching a Zen state. PremiumCare Calming Treats are designed to relax your dog without unwanted side effects like drowsiness. The delicious duck-flavored chews contain a combination of organic hemp and other calming nutrients.

Best Friends “Fur-ever”

Dogs who become anxious or destructive when left alone often just need companionship. Shelters and rescues across the country are always looking for families to adopt or foster, so why not help a lonely pup find a home and give Fido a new best friend at the same time?

Are You Keeping Tabs On Me?

Every dog owner wonders what their pooch is up to when they’re not around. Furbo gives you a window into your pup’s world. Equipped with a 1080p HD camera, you can livestream your furry friend straight to your smartphone. The bark alert lets you know if your dog has something to say, and you can even toss her a treat for being a good guard dog.

I "Chews" You

Can you imagine being trapped inside with nothing to do? Well, that's how Fido might feel when you leave the house. Keep your canine entertained between naps with a new chew toy. Great for dental care and passing the time, Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone will keep him busy for hours, and a portion of the proceeds goes to animal welfare causes across the U.S. On the other hand, Furballz are designed for more gentle chewers to cuddle with and gnaw on when you’re not around.