How to Create a Calm Environment for Your Dog Before You Leave

(Nashville‑Approved Tips from the Prefurred Pets Team)

Does your pup turn into a ball of nerves the minute you grab your keys? You’re not alone. A 2020 survey of 13,700 dogs found that over 70 % show at least one anxiety‑related behavior, and another poll revealed that more than half of pet parents notice true separation‑anxiety signs when they walk out the door.

That stress can lead to excess barking, house‑soiling, destructive chewing, and a whole lot of guilt for Nashville dog owners.

The good news? A few simple, science‑backed tweaks to your “exit routine” can make a world of difference. Below are eight easy steps we share with our own Prefurred Pets Nashville clients to set the stage for a calmer, happier dog (and cat!) every time you head out.

1. Establish a Consistent Calm‑Down Routine

Pets thrive on predictability. Try repeating the same three‑step sequence - snack, white‑noise machine on, quiet “see you soon” - before every departure. Over time your dog learns that this pattern means “chill time,” not “panic time.”

2. Add Soothing Background Sound

Leaving on a fan, a calming Spotify playlist, or even a TV tuned to a talk‑radio channel helps mask startling street noise. Our Nashville walkers swear by soft classical music and “Through a Dog’s Ear” tracks for pups with sensitive ears.

3. Offer a Long‑Lasting Food Puzzle

A frozen peanut‑butter Kong, lick mat, or treat‑dispensing ball turns your exit into something to look forward to. (Bonus: mental enrichment tires the brain almost as much as physical exercise.)

4. Keep Goodbyes Low‑Key

It feels loving to smother your dog with hugs before you leave, but that dramatic farewell actually tells Fido, “Something big is happening!” Instead, keep your tone and body language relaxed, hand over the food puzzle, say a brief “See you later,” and walk out confidently. Your calm energy sets the tone for theirs.

5. Leave Your Scent Behind

Tuck an unwashed T‑shirt or small blanket that smells like you into your dog’s bed or crate. Familiar scent cues can lower heart rate and reduce whining while you’re gone.

6. Try a Vet‑Approved Calming Diffuser or Spray

Products such as Adaptil® (for dogs) or Feliway® (for cats) release synthetic pheromones that mimic the “happy messages” moms send to their young. They’re easy to plug in near your pet’s favorite hangout spot.

7. Exercise Before You Go

A tired dog = a relaxed dog. A good 20‑ to 30‑minute walk, or a vigorous game of fetch in your backyard, burns off excess energy and releases feel‑good endorphins that help your pup settle faster.

8. Practice Short Absences First

If your dog already struggles, start with five‑minute practice departures and slowly extend the time. Pair each return with calm praise. Gradual desensitization builds confidence and teaches your dog that you always come back.

Let Prefurred Pets Nashville Be Part of Your Calm‑Dog Plan

Many of our clients tell us that after scheduling midday walks with our team, they come home to calmer, happier dogs because we’ve taken the edge off with exercise, bathroom breaks, and a friendly face. If your Nashville pup shows signs of separation anxiety, let’s team up:

• Book an Onboarding session to discuss your dog’s needs.

• Try our Prefurred Walkers Club for discounted, recurring walks that provide a schedule your pets craves.

• Get started HERE!

  
  

Give your best friend a calmer day—and come home to tail wags instead of tattered pillows!