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 by introducing your dog to his crate. (See Crate Training.)
• Crate him for short periods while you are present. Gradually increase the time crated. Reward quiet behavior with calm praise and perhaps a treat such as a piece of dog food (a healthier option than most treats).
• Start leaving your puppy alone – start with just a few minutes at a time, if possible.
• Gradually increase the time spent alone.
• Limit your attention when you are home so it isn’t such a shock when you leave.
• 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 forever, but don’t rush freedom. Most dogs aren’t ready to be given unsupervised freedom in your home until they are a year-and-a-half or older.
• For those of you who work, consider hiring a 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.
• Exercise - and plenty of it - helps dogs who must be alone long hours.

Do’s and Don’ts
Do make leaving and arriving uneventful. If you make leaving a big production – lots of hugs and goodbyes or asking if he’ll miss you – your dog will assume it’s a big deal. When you return, don’t go directly to his crate and make a fuss except if your dog is a young pup or has been left for many hours. In those cases, take him right out as he may really need to relieve himself and making him wait can lead to a wet crate. If you can, wait until your dog is calm and quiet, then casually go greet him and praise him for being calm and quiet. Always give your puppy an opportunity to eliminate prior to crating him and provide him with an appropriate chew toy.

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, including tearing up the room, constant barking and whining, or housetraining mistakes every time you leave – often starting immediately after you leave. For cases where the strategy above doesn’t work, you may want to consult a qualified dog trainer or behavior professional.