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My new rescue dog barks when I leave. How can I stop the noise?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 months and 18 days old | 20 lbs

I rescued a dog from a verified shelter. I have had her for two weeks. She is a wonderful dog but barks whenever I leave. I live in a condo building and neighbors have mentioned the barking. What can I do???

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 19th, 2018

It could be that Rosie is suffering from separation anxiety. I recommend crating her when you are gone. The crate will provide her a small space where she can feel safe in it when you are gone. You will have to slowly train her to get used to a crate. Start by putting her in it when you are home and sitting nearby so she doesn't think you are abandoning her, and slowly increase the time she is in it. She can have toys in the crate, and puzzle toys with treats in it that she has to figure out how to get the treats out. You can put a tablespoon of peanut butter in a Kong toy and freeze it in the freezer overnight, then give it to her in the crate. That will keep her occupied for a while. Finally, you can get a pheromone diffuser called DAP that helps dogs with anxiety and pair that will a DAP pheromone collar that releases pheromones when in contact with her skin. If these methods do not help her, then I recommend having her seen by a vet to discuss the use of anti-anxiety medications. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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