Barking when I leave

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Lapinplastifie8583 Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone

My dog Indy, who is nearly 13, has started barking when I go out lately. We moved house recently; I used to live in a flatshare and she knew that if she barked, one of my housemates would get up. Except now, she’s on her own.

I work from home one day a week, so Indy is on her own four days a week. I’ve set up a camera to see how she behaves: when I leave in the morning, say a few minutes later, she lies down and starts barking. It’s nothing major, but she barks for about 10 to 30 minutes depending on the day, and then she stays calm until I get back.

I’ve bought some stress relief supplements (similar to Zylkene) for her, and I also messaged a pet behaviourist. Based on the videos I sent, they told me it was next to nothing and that a consultation wasn't really necessary... My neighbours have confirmed that it doesn't bother them—well, they said they can't hear a thing.

The problem is, I’m still really, really stressed about it. I’m terrified the neighbours will complain, or that she’s feeling distressed—I don't even dare go out for anything other than the essentials because I'm so worried she'll bark.

Do you have any advice?

Thank you very much

Translated from French
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4 answers
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    • P
    Picco85 Icon representing the flag French
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    Hello. Instead of looking for some kind of "anti-something" remedy, it’s time to reconnect with your pet and her needs. I’m not trying to lecture you or give advice, but I think she’s missing something and you need to provide it. At 13, I imagine she’s becoming more demanding of your presence and wants to spend more time with you. You’re the only one there facing the situation; we can’t see or hear what’s going on. From your description, I’d call it a cry for help.
    Translated from French
    compagnonnova
    Compagnonnova Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there,

    To be honest, from what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re the one suffering more than Indy is.

    If she barks for 10 to 30 minutes after you leave and then sleeps or stays calm all day, that’s a far cry from a dog panicking for hours on end.

    Plus, you’ve already got several reassuring signs:

    • the behaviourist didn’t feel the need to intervene;

    • your neighbours say they aren't bothered;

    • she eventually settles down on her own.

    You’ve only just moved, so she probably needs a bit more time to find her feet in her new surroundings.

    At 13 years old, changes in routine can be a bit harder to handle than they used to be.

    Maybe keep providing her with a reassuring environment when you leave (her bed, familiar scents, a little goodbye routine), but honestly, I don't see anything alarming in what you’re saying.

    Also, try not to check the pet cam constantly, as that really feeds the stress. 🙂

    All the best to you and Indy!

    CompagnonNova
    Dog and cat lover

    Translated from French
    Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    I reckon she’s barking out of habit; because someone always ended up getting up for her, she’s just carrying on. Give her something to keep her busy before you head out—something to chew on (a chicken foot or a rabbit ear, they aren't too tough), a treat dispenser, or try scattering her dry food...
    Translated from French
    ProvetoJuniorConseil
    Provetojuniorconseil Icon representing the flag French
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    Hello,

    Based on what you’ve described, I find it quite reassuring that Indy settles down on her own and stays calm until you get back. It doesn’t sound like she’s in severe distress for the entire time you’re out.

    Moving house is a huge change for a dog, especially at her age.

    In your old flatshare, she most likely learned that barking got a reaction from people, and she might just need a bit of time to adjust and realise that the context has changed.

    You could try working on your departures by leaving her with a high-value activity (like a chew, a lick mat, or a stuffed Kong) when you leave, and make sure her needs for exercise and interaction are fully met before you head out for the day.

    But as far as I'm concerned, there's nothing major to worry about.

    Maëlla

    Translated from French

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