Because of COVID-19, you are probably under stay-at-home orders, and from the viewpoint of your dog, it's wonderful.

Eventually, however, things will go back to normal. When everyone leaves the house for work and school, your dog will spend much of the day alone. This could cause stress for your furry friend, who has grown used to having people home all day.

But there are several actions you can take now to help prevent your puppy, or even your older dog, from feeling separation anxiety when the regular routines resume.

Crate-train your puppy. Just because you can be home all day to supervise your puppy doesn't mean the crate is obsolete. Your puppy should spend time in the crate every day. Not only is this a good, safe place for your pup to hang out, it will make the transition easier when the pup is crated for periods of time in the future while you're out of the house.

Maintain the routine. This is especially important if you have a puppy. Try to maintain your normal daily routine as much as possible. Packing up book bags, picking up keys, etc., are usually good predictors for leaving the house. Let your new puppy see and hear these activities, even if you have to pretend, so this doesn't come as a surprise later, when you really need to get out the door.

Leave the house without your dog. Leave the house every day without your dog. Whether it's for a walk, a drive around the block or even just to sit on your porch, your dog or puppy needs to spend time away from you.

Get special toys to alleviate boredom. Keep a selection of long-lasting chew toys that your dog loves. Chews, treat-dispensing toys and toys that can be stuffed with food can be given to your dog when he needs to spend time in the crate or pen.