Shih Tzus

Hi All,

I need help. My three year old has major separation anxiety. He is a very sweet dog until I leave the house. As soon as I leave, he begins barking and continous to do so until he is totally dehydrated. He will not drink water. He will not eat. He poops and pees uncontrollably. We tried to crate him, but that didn't work because he poops and then paces in it, resulting in having to get a nightly bath! I am at my wit's end!!

We moved into a new house in Nov 2007 and although he did it our old house, he had not done it here. What is it? He has started chewing up our wooden mini blinds again! Also we have just learned he pees on the rugs. All this is done while we're sleep. DMy husband is angry. I am frustrated. I don't know what to do. We've had training, and he did very well. but the training did not separation issue.

As much as I love Jackson, I can not afford to replace everything he destroys. I am at the point of finding a new home for him. He really would be happier in a home where someone is home 24/7. When we are home, he is perfect. He responds to his commands. He "ask" to go out to potty or he uses his puppy pads when it is wet out (he does not like to get his feet wet!. He plays with nicely with his cat. He eats and drinks like a normal dog. But most importantly, he is calm! I really do he would be an awesome companion dog for an elderly person.

Any suggestions?

Is Jackson crate trained? If not, that would be my first step, that would stop the destroying of your things, and he shouldn't pee or poo in there as long as you have the correct size crate. While he is in the crate, give him some of his toys and maybe a kong with some peanut butter in it.

We went through something similar with Max. The vet recommended a couple things....
1. work in steps...leave for 5 minutes and then come back...keep working in small steps to let your baby know you will always come back.
2. I know you said you put your baby in a crate...is he trained in the crate. working on the training may help as well.
3. there is anti-anxiety medication you may use. I would check with your vet and see what he recommends...
Good Luck with your baby...