When it comes to behavior modification, focusing on positive behavior is very important. When training your dog, look for opportunities for positive reinforcement. Great rewards that can help increase relaxed behavior include:

• A rub of the tummy (affection)
• A tasty dog chew (treat)
• A new ball (toy)
• Some dog owners choose to use the once-daily Reconcile^® chewable tablet as a treat in the training process

Reward your dog, but only when he is calm and relaxed. Make it fun and involve the whole family. Don't reprimand bad behavior. Punishing your pet for bad behavior that occurs while you are gone only adds to his anxiety and confusion.

With canine separation anxiety, it's important to encourage calm behavior. That's why it's critical to ignore overly excited, attention-seeking actions by your pet.

Look for opportunities for more relaxed time together. Whether you have a few hours or just a few minutes, devote the time you can to creating a relaxed environment including:

• A relaxing brushing/combing
• A comforting, soothing belly rub or pet massage
• A cuddle while sitting quietly together

The more your dog begins to associate positive rewards with calm behavior, the more likely you will see calm behavior more regularly.

Much of your dog's negative behavior results from the stress when you come and go. Grabbing your keys or coat can be the signal that creates anxiety, setting off your pet's bad behavior.

Tips to avoid creating stress for your pet when you come and go include:

• At home: Practice the routine you normally take when you leave – grab your keys, put on your coat, etc. – but don't actually go anywhere. For example, put on your coat, then sit and watch television for a few minutes. Pick up your keys and set them back down a few times. Teach your dog that these actions don't necessarily mean you're leaving. Practice this throughout the day or as often as possible.
• Before you leave: When you need to leave, plan ahead. About 20 to 30 minutes before going out, distract your dog with a favorite treat or toy, then ignore her. When it's time to go, simply walk out without bringing any attention to yourself or to your dog. Avoid long farewells or lectures to ‘be good while I'm gone.’ These can become trigger events, much like putting on your coat or picking up your keys, and may create more anxiety.
• When you return: She may jump on you and seek attention, but do your best to ignore your dog until she calms down, then reinforce the positive calm behavior. If your dog is overly excited when you return, even the sound of your voice or establishing eye contact can be perceived as a reward. Greet your dog only after she is calm and relaxed. Remove the treat or toy that you left as a distraction. (Be careful; consult your veterinarian if your dog reacts negatively.) 

One of the reasons many of us decide to become pet owners is for the companionship a dog brings. It's rewarding to enjoy each other's company. But no one wants a dog that needs companionship at all times. Instead, it's crucial to focus on developing your dog's independence, particularly by helping your dog relax while you're away. To do this:

• Continue to only reward your dog when he's relaxed.
• When your dog will relax on command, teach him to stay settled in a specific area to build a sense of security when you move away. Some dog owners use a mat or dog bed as a secure area.
• Once you create a consistent place for your pet to feel secure, you can gradually increase the time and distance separating you from your dog. For example, start by moving to another room (but within eyesight) for a few minutes.
• When your dog is comfortable with you at that distance, try moving to another room where you cannot be seen. Increase the length of time you can be away in another room. When your dog is comfortable with this phase, try going outside then returning within minutes. Gradually lengthen the amount of time you are away from your dog.