We have a 7-month-old Husky cross Australian Shepherd. We’ve recently found out that she howls like a wolf whenever we leave the house. I think it’s because she doesn’t like being on her own, as she’s very rarely left by herself. It only happens once or twice a week for about 7 hours at most. Since the weather has turned nice, we’ve been leaving her in the kitchen and lounge area with access to the garden while we’re away. She has plenty of toys to keep her occupied and, of course, food and water. When we get home, we make a point of ignoring her at first. I’ve also tried taking her for a walk before I leave. I’m at a bit of a loss as to what else to try; we get on really well with our neighbours and I don’t want this to disturb their peace and quiet. Any advice?
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So, when I mention 7 hours maximum, it’s actually very rare. Last month it only happened on one Sunday, and this month just one Saturday. This week, she was only left alone yesterday afternoon from 3.30 pm to 7 pm, which I reckon is pretty reasonable. Plus, my neighbours, who we get on really well with (she’s even been round to theirs with us), keep an eye on her. We can see them through the fence. It’s unbelievable how some people just can’t help judging!! I’ve already tried using a pet cam and, wouldn't you know it, she slept almost the whole time that day. Thanks for the advice. I’m going to try hiding some treats to keep her busy too; I think you can get treat balls for that, someone recommended them to me.
Of course they don't speak 'human'; they understand the context of the word and recognise the sound. How else do you think they learn vocal commands?
When we say things like "dinner time", "let's go", or "walkies", they don't speak English, but they do understand. If you said "beep-beep" and that meant "sit" to them, then that would be their "sit". So, saying "I'm coming" is just like saying "blah-blah"—if the dog knows it means their owner is coming back, then it works. It’s just easier for us humans to use words that we use instinctively every day.
Mind you, I’m not sure if simply talking to them will actually stop this kind of barking.
Twice a week is quite a lot. And seven hours is a really long time for a dog that’s only seven months old. They’re still just a puppy and shouldn't be left on their own. If you can’t take them with you, try leaving them with a friend or some neighbours. Once they’re fully grown, they’ll learn how to cope with being alone and wait for you to come home.
The more you carry on as you are now, the more you risk ending up with an adult dog that can't handle being left by themselves.
You really need to get your dog used to being left alone in small stages and praise her whenever she doesn't bark.
A dog will bark or cry when their owners are away if they are feeling anxious. This anxiety usually settles when you are there. You should try to find out if it is definitely due to anxiety; if so, shouting at her will only make her more frightened.
You could also speak to a veterinary behaviourist who can look into the reason behind the barking (whether it’s boredom, not liking being alone, or fear) and help you with behavioural therapy and, if necessary, medical treatment.
It’s true that you often hear you should ignore them when you get back, but that advice is mostly to stop the dog from getting over-excited and jumping all over you.
Ignoring them when you leave is all about making the departure a non-event.
Personally, I can't leave or walk away while out on a walk if someone else is holding her without saying "wait for me, I'll be back" – otherwise, well, she just doesn't know what to do and panics completely. Saying that makes sense for her because she knows the word "wait" and has understood that when I say "I'll be back", it means I’m definitely returning.
Mind you, I don't have a Husky; they’re a pretty vocal breed and much more likely to howl the house down than other "quieter" dogs, so I don’t have much advice for you there.
Try setting up a security cam (you can find some cheap ones online) to see exactly when she starts howling. Is it right away (meaning she really doesn't like being on her own) or after a while (maybe boredom?)
If she's rarely left alone, take the chance to get her used to it in stages (leave for 5 minutes, and if she doesn't whine, up it to 10 minutes next time... then keep building it up). Does she know the command "wait"? You could use that before you head out.
On the days she’s home alone for seven hours, try to find someone to take her for a walk in the middle of the day so she doesn't feel too lonely.
Regarding ignoring her when you get back, I’m not entirely sure. It can help make coming and going seem like no big deal, but giving her a bit of a fuss and some praise is also a way to reward her for being well-behaved (especially during the training exercises). It’s something to think about.
