My dog shakes when I leave. How to train her for separation anxiety?

Question

My dog has separation anxiety where whenever I leave her with another friend she just stairs at the door and shakes and doesn't react. She's usually very friendly when I'm with her and I have never seen this firsthand but have gotten many people telling me about it. How should I train her so she's friendly and playful even when I'm not there? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 11 months and 13 days old | 35 lbs

Bette Isacoff · Accepted Answer

Most people make the mistake of leaving their dogs for the first time without regard to how long they'll be gone. This can lead to separation anxiety. It is best to begin by leaving for, literally, a second or two. The dog will not have had time to work herself up into a frenzy yet. Come back in and greet her happily. Do this several times; then gradually increase the time you are out in 10 second increments; keep lengthening your time away. If you find her anxious when you come in, go back to the amount of time you were able to remain out without upsetting her. You can also use a Kong toy filled with peanut butter (be sure it's not made with xylitol). For a longer play session, freeze the Kong with the snack in it. She will begin to associate your going out with a goody, which will make it pleasureable.

My dog shakes when I leave. How to train her for separation anxiety?

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