This condition is a panic response that occurs when a dog's people leave the home. Dogs with separation anxiety become highly distressed, usually within an hour of the person's departure. They may dig, chew, or scratch at doors or windows in an attempt to get out and find their owners; howl, bark, or whine; or potty in the house. Behaviorists aren't sure why some dogs develop separation anxiety while others don't, but it sometimes develops when the dog is not used to being left alone; after the dog has been boarded at a kennel; or after a change in the family routine, such as moving to a new home, the addition of a baby or new pet, or the departure of a teenager for college. Dogs with separation anxiety often follow their people from room to room, greet them frantically when they return home, and act depressed or anxious when they see their people preparing to leave.

How to Prevent Separation Anxiety

Practicing sit/stays and down/stays can help your pug learn to tolerate your absence. Give the command, and move away from the dog. Eventually, move into another room, one where he can still see you. When he's comfortable with that, try going to a room where he can't see you. Give lots of praise and treats when he remains in place while you're gone. Work these sessions into your daily routine, telling your pug to stay whenever you need to go into another room for something.

Patience Is a Virtue

If your pug has a severe case of separation anxiety, behavior modification and — in some cases — antianxiety drugs can help solve the problem. Patience, not punishment, is a must. In fact, punishing your pug for behaviors related to separation anxiety can make the situation worse by increasing his anxiety.

Behavior modification takes time. To deal with your pug's anxieties in the meantime, consider having a pet sitter or a neighbor come in while you're gone; making use of dog day-care centers; or taking your pug with you whenever possible. For severe cases, talk to your veterinarian about prescribing an antianxiety drug to help your pug cope in the short term. This isn't a cure in and of itself, but it can be used successfully in conjunction with behavior modification. As your dog improves, you can taper off the medication as your veterinarian directs. Other techniques for preventing separation anxiety can be found in Chapter 18.