In my experience with other small breeds, if they think they are the boss or center of the household they can get some separation anxiety issues..
I would work with him during the day, crate him for small amounts of time randomly, not on a schedule while you are home. If he starts barking or whining don't make eye contact or respond to him at all.. just wait near by for him to stop(I stand with my back to the crate when I'm doing this).. as soon as he is quiet let him out, but don't praise him or make a big deal out of it.. just do it like it's a normal everyday occurrence to open the door. In doing this you're training him that it's no big deal you will let him out of the crate eventually, that he can be ok with time away from you, you will be returning. By ignoring his noise he is making you're training him that barking or whining isn't a way to get your attention, but being calm IS a way out. (I personally struggle with not saying something like Shhh!! or Shush up! but dog's don't understand that and just use it as reinforcement)
It takes some time, try not to get frustrated.. If you are feeling frustrated or angry step out of the room (or house) so he doesn't feel your frustration, sometimes that just get's them more worked up.
On the flip side, I had a minpin I trained to bark as well as whine on command.. Once I taught her that I reversed it with the command Zip It! and trained her to be quiet on command.. If you are trick training your pup you might try this to see if you can get him to preform for you.. but it wouldn't be a permanent solution as he's doing it as a trick instead of a habit.. For me it was a nice way to shut her up when someone rang the door bell.. I told her to speak than told her zip it.. it was a game for her.
Good luck with whatever you do! |