[theporkieyorkie]

My older male had separation anxiety. He rarely was left alone, but even if I went out to mow for 15 minutes or downstairs to do the laundry, there would be a present waiting for me when I got back.

I started crating him and he stopped pottying while I was gone and he seemed to be a lot more comfortable in his crate, but I hated crating him. Eventually, I got another dog and problem solved. He hasn't had an accident on the floor due to separation anxiety since!!

I've heard a couple of other things to do...like don't make a big deal out of leaving or coming in...meaning no exciting good-byes or hello. Just pretend like you were never gone!!

Also...you can leave an enrichment toy as you walk out, such as a kong filled with peanut butter....something to distract them while you leave....

I've also heard of desensitizing the dog to you leaving...walk out for a minute and back in and out and then in...then 2 then 3 then 4...increasing in increments when the dog starts relaxing...no barking, wining, pacing or excitement. You can also leave the enrichment toy while doing this.