Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Dog is a Drama King!

“Every time I leave the house, my dog Frankie gives me the most dramatic ‘I’m going to die without you’ look. How can I help him be less of a drama king when I leave?” – Sam from Wisconsin

Hi Sam! First, know that you are not alone. This is a widespread problem with dogs and pet owners and it is usually an indication of your dog suffering separation anxiety. Addressing the issue is very important otherwise you may soon start seeing some of your property lost due to Frankie’s distress. You might also hear some complaints from your neighbors due to the noise.

It is very important to start working on changing the scenario to effectively change Frankie’s mindset. Start with yourself—learn to be relaxed and not to make a big fuss about leaving or returning home. You must analyze your behavior to find what body language and cues trigger Frankie’s responses. For some people is when they grab the keys from the keyholder or when they put on their coats, etc. Identify that moment because that is what you have to start working with. A simple solution is to find something that grabs Frankie’s attention and is incompatible with making a drama. Puzzle feeders work great, but do not fall into the mistake of using the same approach every single time you leave as Frankie will soon lose interest, so I recommend that you find at least three different items to use on rotation. I love treat dispensing cameras, as they allow a distance interaction with your pup. Just be very mindful to ensure Frankie only gets a treat when he is calm. The general idea is to offer Frankie something else to focus on while you calmly and quietly leave. Avoid big dramatic goodbyes, work on short returns, and avoid long-lasting leaving routines.

You can learn more about separation anxiety by reading these posts:
Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Vet-Approved Guide
How to Help a Dog With Separation Anxiety: Vet-Reviewed Tips & Tricks

Best wishes!
Dr. Paola

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Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Sleeping Under the Covers!

“My dog insists on sleeping under the covers like a human. Is this a weird quirk, or does he think he’s part of the family now?” – Geoff from California, parent of Snickers

Hi Geoff! Dogs also like comfort and coziness, and if you live in a colder area, Snickers is just enhancing his slumber. Remember that their ancestors rested in dark and protected dens so it’s only natural. Once dogs learn that something is possible and allowed, especially if it brings them extra comfort or some sort of gratification, it is perfectly natural for them to repeat. But just for you to know, it happens even in experts’ homes: check out our very own Dr. Karyn’s struggles with Poppy!

You might also find the following tips on How to Get Your Dog to Use Their New Dog Bed helpful and might even want to consider getting Snickers a heated bed if you think he is after the warmer temperature or getting him his own blankets, too. One more tip, you might have to make it physically impossible for Snickers to get to your bed while he warms up to the idea of having his own.

Kind regards,
Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Won’t Let Me Eat in Peace!

“So, I’ve noticed that every time I try to eat anything, my dog is right there beside me, staring at me with those big puppy eyes as if she hasn’t eaten in days. I try to ignore it, but then she starts pawing at my leg, and before I know it, I’ve dropped half my lunch. I know it’s not good to give her people food, but how do I stop her from acting like I’m withholding her life’s greatest pleasure (and me from feeling like it, too) when I’m just trying to have a peaceful meal?” – Laura from Ontario, Canada, parent of Ella

Yes, they always try to find the way. In your case, Laura it is very important that at this point, you remember that you have the right to eat your meal in peace. You are the one who made the hypothetic hunt, so in theory, you eat first and then share with Ella.

A dog will keep trying and trying—it seems like begging for food is a never-ending game, especially if you already dropped some food and Ella got rewarded for doing it then she will keep trying the same formula. Ignore the puppy eyes, and do not allow her to paw you, the moment she does that she needs to get out of the kitchen. Otherwise, the pawing will soon turn into jumping to your hands for lunch, and depending on her size, this can even be dangerous. For the sake of both your health and your relationship, you need to stop it.

Something that works great is establishing a “station” in the kitchen. Mark this area by placing a floormat at a distance and feeding her only when she has physical contact with it. You will need to start with small meals but the general idea is you eat your lunch, Ella must remain either lying or sitting in the designated area. Once you finish your lunch, you feed Ella her food, a treat, and some cuddles, but only after you finish your plate.

Prepare yourself: it won’t be easy. But, Ella needs to learn the rules of the game. Don’t let her get you and also make a conscious effort to not confuse her. You need to be consistent every time otherwise Ella will not understand what she is allowed to do or not.

Best of luck and be confident, you got this!
Dr. Paola