You are not alone. It is common for dogs to have separation anxiety. In fact, in the US, it is one of the most prevalent behavioral issues, which is not surprising considering we Americans tend to bond strongly with our dogs and treat them as family members. Add to that, take a street dog who has never had a chance to have their “own” human and the love and security that it brings and it’s a recipe for extreme bonding. Most of us have dogs because we want a loving companion that will be our best friend and it can be one of the most rewarding experiences. However, too much of a good thing can have adverse unintended effects.
The dog is displaying separation anxiety initially because they are afraid you won’t come back. The dog most likely not only views you as their loving companion but most likely their life line.
Don’t despair, there are things you can do to make your dog more comfortable in your absence.
1. When first welcoming your new dog into your home let them gain their independence a little on their own. You don’t want them to think YOU are their sole reason for happiness and survival. Withhold a little affection the first week and have them get into a routine from day 1 which includes you leaving them alone even if for short periods.
2. Don’t make a big deal of your coming or going. They will sense your anxiety if you are sad to leave them and it will translate into anxiety for them. Just make it part of their normal routine with no fanfare when you leave or when you return. If your dog gets overly excited upon your return don’t acknowledge or reward until he or she is calm.
3. Give them something fun to do while you are gone. A special treat – one that ideally takes them awhile to enjoy such as a Kong Bone with peanut butter or cheese hidden inside. This treat should only be reserved for times when you leave and it should be one that they absolutely love.
4. TV or radio can help distract them and cover noises that could cause anxiety.
5. Practice in short intervals and lengthen the time that you leave them alone. Start with 5 minutes and repeat until calm, then go up to 10 minutes and so on until they can remain calm for several hours. They will soon begin to realize that you are always going to come back.
6. When being left alone for the first time it can be a scary thing and a dog will usually be calmer in a den like setting rather than having full roam of the house. It usually reduces stress if a dog is in a crate when left alone at least until they are comfortable in the house, have learned the rules, and knows they are home.