How do I get my dog to stay home alone without separation anxiety?

Most people make the mistake of leaving their dogs for the first time without regard to how long they'll be gone. This can lead to separation anxiety. It is best to begin by leaving for, literally, a second or two. The dog will not have had time to work herself up into a frenzy yet. Come back in and greet her happily. Do this several times; then gradually increase the time you are out in 10 second increments; keep lengthening your time away. If you find her anxious when you come in, go back to the amount of time you were able to remain out without upsetting her. You can also use a Kong toy filled with peanut butter (be sure it's not made with xylitol). For a longer play session, freeze the Kong with the snack in it. She will begin to associate your going out with a goody, which will make it pleasureable.

It sounds like your dog has a degree of separation anxiety. I would recommend first getting him crate trained. If you keep him in a crate while you are gone this will keep him safe from hurting himself or damaging other things in the house. I would also recommend taking him on a fast-paced walk for 20 to 30 minutes before you leave the house. This will help drain some of his nervous energy. It would also help to give him a toy or a treat to play with and keep him busy while he's in the crate. If these tips aren't working for you, you may consider talking to your veterinarian about getting Bruno started on an anti-anxiety medication. I hope this helps. Best of luck

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, gradually work up to the length of time you are usually gone for a normal day. He may or may not ever make it though. If he has extreme separation anxiety I would discuss medications (anti-anxiety) with your vet and private training. If he likes other dogs consider doggie daycare twice a week so he can expend energy. Max is a high energy breed. On your days off and free time be sure to exercise him well. If he plateaus at a certain length of time I would seek help and meds form your Vet. I hope this help!

• Leave on the radio/television. Some dogs may be comforted by background noise. What can I do if my dog already has separation anxiety? Treating an established case of separation anxiety will require the guidance and help of your vet. The road to recovery takes time and patience, but with the right tools you and your dog can both lead a less stressful life. It is very important that you visit with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will help you formulate a specific plan to help reduce your dog’s anxiety and build his confidence. Things your vet may recommend are: Behavioral exercises SPECIFIC for you and your dog. Anxiety-reducing medication. These medications will not cure your dog; however, they can alleviate his anxiety enough so that he is able to learn new behaviors. An examination to look for underlying medical conditions.

They're adorable! Leaving them in a smaller room with music on or a TV will help. Start leaving them for short times before you go back to work to get them used to being alone. Ignore them some of the time when you are home and don't make a big deal about your coming and going. You may consider having someone come in for a while at lunch to take them out and play with them for a few minutes. If needed there are anti anxiety medications that can be given for a short time to get them to relax when alone. Hopefully they will settle into the new routine. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your dogs.

It is possible he has a touch of separation anxiety. It may stress him a bit when you leave the house. Mild cases can be remedied by desensitizing him to your absence. This is done by leaving him along for ever increasing periods of time. Prepare to leave the house multiple times daily. Leave sometimes and other times stay. Do not make a big deal about leaving or returning. Ignore him for 15 minutes or until he settles down upon your return. A special toy or treat can be used to distract him just before you leave. Pick up the toy as soon as you get home. A pheromone product, such is the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may help decrease any anxiety. There are also oral supplements that can calming him down some.

Behavioral modification things to try: downplay your signals when you leave and give her a long-lasting Kong stuffed with treats to focus on. Don't make a big fuss when you return, either--oftentimes owners are unknowingly making things worse by announcing their departures and arrivals. I've had success with anti-anxiety medication like Lorazepam that your veterinarian can prescribe (off-label) for short-term anxiety management. Anti-depressants like Prozac or Clomicalm are also useful for long-term management. Hope that helps!