Dog sitting dogs that won't sleep

[hollysh]

How do you deal with separation anxiety in dogs? I can't leave them at night without them scratching on my door and barking. I don't want them in my room. I have tried it in the past and they think it's time to play and run around. I just want some quiet time to my self. Other than exercising them loads tomorrow, which I intend to do. They only arrived this evening so they've only had a short walk with me so far, what else would you suggest?

 

[JoanneF]

By now your first night will have resolved itself, I hope you got some sleep. Loads of exercise may not be good though, partly because of the heat and partly because they may not be used to it - if that's the case it could be dangerous. I suppose they may have been unsettled on their first night in any case. But you might want to spend some time today on this -

 

[Mad Murphy]

I was going to say over exercising in this weather is not the best plan..

Sometimes (as with children) late exercise can actually cause them not to sleep and to become restless and unsettled. Stick to the routine, try to wind down slowly and not to suddenly do lights out, door shut, go to sleep. Hopefully as they see you relax they will too and you will all get a good nights sleep.

 

[Flobo]

I homeboard too and I have always left my bedroom door ajar, even if the dog is happy in the front room they can check where you are in the night for reassurance. They always have the choice too to sleep in bedroom and generally settle better and we all get a good nights sleep, but that works for me, I know it's not for everyone. Most dogs get used to your routine pretty quick but the first night may be difficult as you and your home are new to them and it would be quite natural for them to be unsettled.