Dog Owner Finds Ransacked Apartment, Realizes Her Dog's Clever Escape Caused Everything
Dogs do the silliest things, but one Redditor experienced something different — her dog almost gave her a heart attack.
According to the original poster (OP) who shared the story on r/tifu, she moved a few months ago and found that her dog was good at being left at home during the first month. With her tiny apartment and the dog's good behavior, she put his crate into storage.
But one day, after a storm hit while she was at work, she came home to find her dog running down the hallway toward her. Her apartment door was wide open.
She was horrified, so she checked every room to ensure no one had broken in. The rugs were scrunched up, and the door handle was chewed.
After some investigation, she realized her dog had managed to open the door by turning the deadbolt with his nose and then the handle. Nothing seemed to be missing, and no one had mentioned seeing the dog in the hallways, leading her to believe he might have just stayed near the door waiting for her.
It was such a clever escape, but she also realized that her beloved dog could no longer be trusted out of his crate when she wasn't home, even though he has anxiety when confined.
She feels bad that she had to crate him, but it can't be helped.
After what happened, the OP can't just leave her dog at home.
The OP moved to another apartment with her dog.
Understanding Dog Behavior
Dr. John Paul, a canine behaviorist at the University of California, Davis, explains that dogs often act on instinct rather than training.
His research demonstrates that many dogs have an innate curiosity that can lead them to explore and find creative escape routes.
This behavior can be particularly pronounced in breeds known for their intelligence and energy levels.
Since they live in a small apartment, the OP chose not to use the crate.
She thought she could trust her dog because of its good behavior during the first month in the new place.
Research in animal psychology indicates that when dogs are left alone, they may experience anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviors.
Studies have shown that providing adequate mental stimulation and physical exercise can significantly reduce these incidents.
For instance, a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs engaged in regular exercise exhibit fewer escape attempts and destructive behaviors.
Her dog suddenly appeared in the hallway. She thought someone had broken into her house.
She discovered that her apartment door was wide open.
The Importance of Training and Environment
Creating a secure and stimulating environment for dogs is essential to prevent unwanted behaviors.
According to Dr. Karen Overall, a veterinary behaviorist, ensuring that dogs have a safe space to explore can help alleviate anxiety and promote positive behaviors.
Her research emphasizes that structured training can reinforce desirable behaviors while reducing the likelihood of unwanted ones.
She found all her rugs scrunched up.
The OP also discovered that her dog found a way to open the door.
For dog owners facing similar challenges, practical solutions include investing in interactive toys and regular training sessions.
Research indicates that positive reinforcement training can effectively teach dogs to remain calm and content when left alone.
Incorporating activities such as puzzle toys can also keep dogs mentally engaged, reducing their urge to escape.
Poor doggo.
The OP is trying to figure out what happened.
Crating the dog after the incident was the right thing to do. It's just too risky when she has a dog this clever.
Some Redditors also suggested other options, including daycare and a pet sitter. The dog might get too bored if it's inside the crate.
Providing more mental stimulation and exercise could help reduce the dog's anxiety and destructive behavior when left alone, so she might want to look into hiring a trainer or behaviorist.
Training sessions to address separation anxiety and gradual desensitization to being alone were also recommended.
The nose was his secret weapon.
The OP has no idea about the events that occurred after her dog got out.
She is just thankful that none of her belongings went missing.
From that moment on, this doggo goes in the crate.
The OP was just shocked by the incident.
Redditors provided the OP with more options beyond the crate.
Dogs can go to extremes with separation anxiety.
It's either doggy daycare or a pet sitter.
Psychological Analysis
This situation underscores the challenges many dog owners face when their pets act out unexpectedly.
Recognizing that these behaviors often stem from instinctual drives can help owners approach training and management with empathy and understanding.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Understanding canine behavior through a psychological lens reveals the complexities of dog ownership.
As animal behavior studies suggest, addressing the root causes of anxiety and providing appropriate outlets for energy can greatly improve the human-animal bond.
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