I adopted a 4 year old rescue small lab mix about 2 weeks ago. She…

I adopted a 4 year old rescue small lab mix about 2 weeks ago. She is already deeply attached to me, and is starting to show some separation anxiety. Keeping her contained and safe while I’m at work has become a challenge. My Boston Terrier is content gated in the kitchen, but my rescue Duchess simply climbs over the gate. So I put her in a crate and I have attached a pic of the result (it’s sideways). She had bloodied her mouth and scraped her muzzle. The last couple of days I’ve left her loose in the house and hoped for the best. I saw evidence of her trying to push the gate through to get into the kitchen – to be with my other dog? I don’t know. Any advice is welcome.

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Sarah
6 years ago

Hi there!! Thanks for rescuing. We just rescued another GSD this week and are going through the same thing- separation anxiety. I’m using a lot of patience and I’m walking the soles of my shoes off with him? No, seriously, long walks seem to help. More so than a good romp around the yard with our other young one. So what I did yesterday that really helped, was had him romp with her for about a half hour after right before human dinner, then ate quick, then walked him (while my other two stayed home) for a good long walk-… Read more »

Anonymous
Anonymous
6 years ago

If you’re located near Dr. M, I’d look into obedience classes near you – 4Paws has a selection of classes to consider. She might be otherwise obedient, but classes will help to make her feel more secure in her position in your home, and will help her settle now that she’s past the 2 week introduction phase. More info about training classes at 4Paws here: http://www.4pawsspaonline.com/training.html Kathy Forthman’s a good trainer.

Krista Magnifico
6 years ago

Hello! There are lots of things I would recommend. First of all exercise is my first and constant default. 1. Start taking long walks before you leave for the day. A tired dog is always a better behaved dog. See if this helps. 2. Ask me (I’m her vet) ☺️ About solliquin. 3. Try DAP. Dog appeasing pheromone. There is a lot of great evidence to support its efficacy. 4. Try a radio or tv while you’re away. 5. Try a video monitoring device. See if watching her and intervening helps assuage her chewing. 6. Ask about a neighbor or… Read more »