How can I help my clingy dog with separation anxiety?

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Duke, a recently adopted dog, exhibits strong clinginess and separation anxiety, particularly when left alone at home. Despite his calm demeanor in the car, he becomes distressed when separated from his owner, whining and crying for hours. Training has progressed well due to his attentiveness, but his anxiety manifests in poor eating habits and upset stomachs. Suggestions for alleviating his separation anxiety include providing comforting items with the owner's scent, gradually increasing alone time, and ignoring him upon arrival to reduce excitement. Crate training is deemed ineffective for separation anxiety, and patience is emphasized as Duke adjusts to being alone. Engaging him in vigorous outdoor activities helps expend energy, making him calmer at home. The discussion highlights the importance of consistency in training and the potential need for professional help or medication if his anxiety persists.
  • #31
turbo-1 said:
He was abandoned by his previous owner, picked up as a stray by Animal Control several towns away from here and incarcerated in the Humane Society shelter from May until September, when we rescued him. He is a very smart dog - maybe too smart, with bad memories of this past year.

Oh, I read all your posts.

Still super cute though.
 
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  • #32
Monique said:
He's one fortunate dog to have you as an owner :smile:
Thank you Monique. It's a two-way street because he brings me a lot of joy.

I have decided that our most high-energy times should be outdoors, and at a location away from our house. A 1/2 hour of vigorous "fetch" wears him out enough so that he is less excitable when we get back home. There is a rest-area/scenic overlook on the hill next to the one we live on, and it's pretty open there, with mowed-down lawn. I put a 30' training lead on Duke's collar, but don't actually hold onto it unless we are doing some obedience training, or he gets distracted by something. I carry two tennis balls, and throw one 50-75 feet or more - he'll run it down and bring the ball back and drop it at my feet so I will throw the second ball. Good exercise for him, and I don't have to chase him around or try to grab the ball out of his mouth. The ball I have in my hand always looks more exciting to him than the one in his mouth.

Dukefetch.jpg
 
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