by KYW's Nan Talano

Separation anxiety is one of the most common of canine behavioral problems.

Undesirable behaviors may include excessive barking, whining, chewing, scratching, digging and overall hyperactivity when separated from his owner or when left alone in the house.  This behavior most often can be changed. 

First the dog must be considered to be in good physical health as determined by your vet. Always make sure your dog has been properly walked and is supplied fresh water before you leave the house.  Remember never to punish your dog but rather work through a series of planned departures by leaving the dog alone for short intervals at first (just seconds, then increasing to minutes and so on.) all the while, watching your dog closely for signs of anxiety and stress. Do not continue this exercise until dog can remain calm for shorter intervals.  Leave and return without any excitement whatsoever, just calmly praise and offer a treat if necessary, (but without overexcitement) if your dog remains calm.  It is extremely important to leave and return calmly without drawing attention to you or your dog and praise quietly upon return. Leave again and return gradually bringing the time up to 30 minutes with supervision.

When your dog can remain calm for over an hour, in most cases, he may remain home alone.