If you’ve recently purchased a new puppy that whines and barks when you leave, and engages in destructive behavior, he could have puppy separation anxiety. This condition is a very common one, especially in puppies who have been rescued from shelters or those who have been purchased from pet stores. However, if left untreated, this condition could worsen and cause real trouble for both you and your puppy.

Puppy Separation Anxiety Defined:

Quite simply, separation anxiety is just that – your dog’s anxiety when you leave him. A dog is a pack animal, and very social. He feels as if he should be with you (his pack) at all times, and that’s just what he’d do if you let him. When you leave, he can’t understand why you’re not there and why he can’t be with you. This worry and anxiety manifests in different behaviors – from self mutilation to barking, whining, chewing, or destruction.

How to Treat Separation Anxiety:

Puppies can be treated for separation anxiety more easily than full-grown dogs. One of the first things your puppy needs is a comfortable place where he feels safe. A bed (or even a folded blanket) works perfectly. This should be the place where your puppy receives plenty of affection, praise, and treats, so he comes to equate the spot with comfort. A crate for a puppy will do well too, but you can’t leave the puppy in his crate too long.

Now that he has a comfortable spot, move on to the behavior modification. When you come home, your puppy probably goes completely crazy. He might jump up on you, whine, lick you, and all kinds of other things. It’s important that you ignore this behavior. Don’t talk to him or comfort him; simply stay calm until he calms down. Once he calms down, feel free to give him the love and affection. This teaches him to accept your return calmly.

Another way to help your puppy overcome separation anxiety is to go through the routine you usually go through before you leave. Go outside, stay for five minutes, and then come back in. Do this several times throughout the day so that your puppy gradually gets accustomed to you leaving and coming back. You can then periodically increase the time you stay gone so that his fears are assuaged more and more when you leave.