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My dog has separation anxiety. How can I train him to be alone?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old

How to train him to be alone in house when everyone goes to work because behind us when I see in cam few minjtes later he stand and throw or kknd attack plastic chair it fells down continuously barks on it then sniffing every door so how I should train him to be bold behind us?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 11th, 2017

It sounds like your dog has a degree of separation anxiety. I would recommend first getting him crate trained. If you keep him in a crate while you are gone this will keep him safe from hurting himself or damaging other things in the house. I would also recommend taking him on a fast-paced walk for 20 to 30 minutes before you leave the house. This will help drain some of his nervous energy. It would also help to give him a toy or a treat to play with and keep him busy while he's in the crate. If these tips aren't working for you, you may consider talking to your veterinarian about getting Bruno started on an anti-anxiety medication. I hope this helps. Best of luck

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 28th, 2018

    Max may just be a dog who likes to be near you, or may be dealing with a medical issue or anxiety. There are many causes of anxiety, and it can at times be a complex condition to treat. However, there are many things that you can do to help alleviate stress and help your pup feel better. I would advise seeing your veterinarian to rule out any medical causes for Max’s behaviour first, and also make sure his environmental needs are being met. Consult a reputable dog trainer or veterinary behaviourist about the best way to do this, and visit the link below for tips on how to reduce separation anxiety http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3144. Attending a training class and working on socialization overall can help redirect some of his nervous energy and build his confidence. In some cases dietary changes, supplements and/or medication may be recommended by your vet to help get Max feeling more confident and independent. Also look into Adaptil, a synthetic pheromone that is available in a diffuser and spray form that promotes calm feelings in dogs, and is great for use when there are changes in the home http://www.adaptil.com . I do not recommend that you leave him unattended outside, as you are correct that he may get out and injure himself, or worse. Try to make sure you are with him when he is outside, and make sure he is microchipped and wearing an ID tag at all times to help him get back to you if he ever gets lost. Good luck, and I hope things improve for you soon!

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