In this episode of the Good Dog Pod, host Laura Reeves is joined by Malena DeMartini to talk about separation anxiety in dogs. Malena is a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant who specializes in this topic, with over two decades of experience. 

How should I retrain my dog who has had previous experience with being left home alone? If you have had your dog since before the pandemic, it is likely that they know what it is like being left at home. Start by setting up a camera through which you can watch how your dog reacts to your absence. Give your dog a toy or treat so they associate you leaving with something positive. If your dog settles down after a little while, gradually build up the time you spent away from your dog. Randomize the time you leave your dog at home so they do not start noticing the pattern; leave for a short period of time on some days, and a long period of time on others. 

How should I train my newly acquired dog? Again, start with observing your dog’s reaction to being home alone through a camera. If you notice your dog becoming increasingly agitated - ie. howling, excessive panting and pacing, non stop pawing at the door or windows - go back inside your house. Next, determine how long the dog can handle being home alone with the help of the camera. With each time that you leave them at home, stay under their panic point; return home before they can become too anxious. If your dog needs to be confined when home alone, perform all training with them in the crate or gated room. 

How can I tell if my dog is simply upset at being left at home or actually experiencing separation anxiety? It is normal for dogs to be upset at being left at home alone; most dogs will whine or bark for the first few minutes. Separation anxiety is much more extreme, and over time can have psychological and even physiological effects. If you observe your dog through your camera acting extremely differently from how they usually do, to the point of being very destructive, learn how to best cope with separation anxiety and ensure the welfare of your dog. 

Malena offers a self-paced, online course called “Mission: Possible” on dealing with separation anxiety. She is offering listeners of this podcast a discount on the course using the code GOODDOG.