[alaskayorkie]

What's Joel's reaction when you return after being away? And, more importantly, what's your reaction? Does he race to the front door as you bend down and give him hugs and kisses?

I'm only guessing, and this may have nothing to do with the independence you're looking for, but often times the owner's return is so anticipated that it's all the dog can think about when you're gone. It's separation anxiety. You might even Google that term and see if anything you read rings a bell.

I used to race in the house and give my dogs hugs and kisses because I missed them as much as they missed me. But I read something here, I think, that said you should return and pretty much ignore them for a minute or two. You can say hi, but don't be overenthusiastic. You want to teach them that your leaving is no big deal. It's just part of life. And your return should reinforce that.

Again, I'm only guessing.