Five Proven Ways to Remedy Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Your Dog

3. Never yell or punish your dog after the fact for anything that he has done in your absence.  This will make the problems worse.

It’s very important to remember that these are not signs of misbehavior, but clinical anxiety, and your dog isn’t in control when he’s doing them. Punishing him, especially after the fact, will only increase his anxiety level.

4. Practice leaving for very short periods of time, ignoring your dog for several minutes before leaving and after returning.  Include usual actions such as getting keys, coat, etc.

5. Enrich your dog’s home environment while you are away.  Leave a blanket or article of clothing with your scent on it. Give him interactive toys that make him work to release special treats.  Leave a radio or TV on to mask outdoor sounds and let him hear human voices during the day.

Source: Healthy Pets with Dr Karen Becker