Many dog owners worry about how their pet will manage when left alone at home. British dog trainer Will Atherton recommends a simple yet consistent step to help dogs learn to enjoy being alone rather than fearing it. He emphasizes that the best way to tackle separation anxiety is to prevent it from occurring in the first place, which involves crate training from a young age.

According to Atherton, puppies should learn from day one that the crate is a calm, safe, and comfortable place where they can rest by themselves. This way, dogs can develop independence and do not associate being alone with panic or punishment, but rather view it as a normal part of life. Conversely, an approach where the dog is constantly attached to someone, consistently receiving attention, and never alone can lead to difficulties when the dog eventually faces solitude.

Atherton explains that his strategy focuses on making the crate a super positive space for the dog. By ensuring that the crate is seen as a desirable environment, dogs will be more likely to embrace the concept of being alone, thus alleviating the anxiety that often accompanies it, and fostering a healthier relationship with independence.