Separation anxiety is defined as your dog being greatly distressed every time he is alone. Scratching at the door, chewing things up, inappropriate elimination, barking excessively and generalized anxiety are a few of the signs.

Dogs are social animals and may feel anxious when left alone. Dogs that haven’t been taught how to stay alone calmly may experience anxiety and start exhibiting unwanted behaviors. Gradually adjusting dogs to being alone is the best approach.

Separation anxiety can also develop after a stressful event for your dog. It is important to realize these behaviors are not malicious and that they are likely panic and/or other coping behaviors. Punishing or crating your dog will not eliminate separation anxiety.

Preventing Separation Anxiety
It’s good for your dog or puppy to be comfortable when home alone. You can help him learn this if you take a little time and use these simple steps. Start as soon as you take your puppy home for the first time.

• Dogs like routine. Develop a schedule for your dog. Read Schedules for your Dog for more information.
• Provide your dog with plenty of mental and physical activity.
• Practice Preventative Training.
• Crate train your dog. When done properly, the use of a crate is a great way to help your dog remain calm – and out of trouble! (See Crate Training  for more information.)
• Crate him for short periods while you are present. For example, when you are watching television, put your dog in his crate and put the crate next to the sofa.  Gradually increase the time crated. Reward quiet behavior with calm praise and perhaps a treat such as a kibble of dog food.
• Start leaving your dog or puppy alone in his crate – start with just a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the time spent alone.
• Limit your attention shortly before leaving so it isn’t such a shock when you do leave.
• When you let your dog out of his crate, remain calm and keep the greetings to a minimum. You don’t want to make him excited.
• Reward your dog with a piece of food and attention when he lies quietly away from you.
• Most dogs don’t need to be crated throughout their lives, but don't rush freedom. Typically, dogs aren’t ready to be given unsupervised freedom in your home until they are approximately a year-and-a-half or older.
• For those who work, consider hiring a dog-walker or neighbor to give your dog a midday break. Keeping your schedule similar on weekends as on workdays can help make things easier for your dog.

Do’s and Don’ts
DO make leaving and arriving uneventful. By making leaving a big production – lots of hugs and goodbyes or asking if he’ll miss you – you may increase your dog’s anxiety level. You may want to consider giving him a treat or an appropriate toy so that he associates the crate with something positive.

DON’T get overly excited when you return. Just let your dog out of his crate promptly and take him outside as he may need to relieve himself. As he gets older and has better control of his bladder, wait until your dog is calm and quiet, then casually go greet him and praise him for being calm and quiet. Always give your dog or puppy an opportunity to eliminate prior to crating him.

Signs of Serious Separation Anxiety
Most dogs, especially puppies, may whine or cry a little when left alone. True separation anxiety is defined as destructive or disruptive behavior by a dog, including tearing up the room, constant barking and whining, or inappropriate elimination when he is left by himself. Consult your veterinarian or a qualified dog trainer or behavior professional if you are unable to resolve these issues on your own.