A safe space is a place in the home where a dog can retreat when they are feeling anxious. They may not always choose to use it, but knowing that it is available can help build their confidence. Think of it as an extended crate area; you want your dog to view it with the same positivity as they do their crate. It should also be easily accessible.
A safe space is a place that can serve as a retreat for your dog during stressful times. It’s a great solution to help with issues like anxiety from loud noises and weather, unfamiliar people or pets, or separation. This isn’t just a temporary solution either; it should be an area that your dog considers their own on a permanent basis.
Ideally, your dog’s safe space will be a crate, but even a cosy corner in your home can serve as a sanctuary. It should be a quiet, private spot away from your other animals or children. If you have multiple dogs, each should have their own safe space so that they can avoid each other during periods of tension.
It doesn’t have to be a large area; even your basement or a well-equipped closet can work (Geier). You should also make sure that your dog has access to water in their safe space, especially during periods of stress.
A safe space can be a corner of the family room, an extra bedroom, or even a crate. It’s important to have a designated area for your dog to retreat to when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed. This can help prevent unwanted behaviours such as barking or chewing.
In the wild, dogs seek out small den-like spaces to feel comfortable and protected from predators and weather. Even though your dog is domesticated, they still have these denning instincts. A safe space can be a place for them to hide or relax during stressful situations like thunderstorms, parties, or visits from family members.
Many pet owners use their dog’s crate as the primary safe space, but you can also train them to go to any location within the home that feels comforting to them. You can use verbal cues such as “go to your spot” or a clicker and treat reward system to reinforce the behaviour.
Having a space that is filled with the comforts of home can help your dog feel more at ease in times of stress. This may include a comfortable dog bed, a favourite blanket or even a t-shirt that smells like you. For a little more added calm, consider adding a sound machine that will mask outside noises and distracting stimuli.
This can also be an excellent opportunity to provide your dog with some mental enrichment activities, like a food puzzle or treat dispensing toy. This helps tire your dog out by working their brains and can help reduce anxiety, fear, and stress.
Make sure that your safe space is free of any safety hazards or items that could be dangerous to your dog, such as choking toys or electrical cords. Double-check to ensure that they have easy access to fresh water. Keeping their water accessible will prevent your dog from having to leave their comfort zone to rehydrate, which can add to their anxiety and stress levels.
If your dog can smell poop and dirty laundry in their safe space, they may not want to spend time there. Clean up often and use natural, pet-safe cleaners to keep the area fresh.
Including some of your dog’s favourite items can also signal to them that this is their space. A cosy blanket, a bed, or even a chew toy can make them feel comforted and happy. Some dog owners choose to play calming music or white noise in their pup’s safe space to help alleviate anxiety and mask distracting outside noises. This can be particularly helpful for dogs who experience separation anxiety.
When your dog is in their safe space, try to avoid petting them or playing with them, so they learn that it’s a place they can go to on their own when they need some peace and quiet. This can also teach the rest of the household that if the dog takes themselves off to their safe space, they do not want attention from them.