3 month old puppy poops and barks when I leave him alone

by Elizabeth
(Merced, Ca, USA)

I have a puppy that is 3 months old, every time I leave him alone and walk out of the room he cries and barks, if I leave him alone for 10min. or more he poops!

Every morning I have to leave him alone for an hour because I have class in the morning when I come back there’s poop all over. I tried crating him and he still does it, I’m training him to go potty and he’s doing really good but it’s just when I leave him alone that he poops even if I take him to the bathroom before I leave.

I don’t know what to do because he gets really messy and I have to take him a shower every time this happens and I know that is bad for him so I really don’t know what to do!

Please Help!!





Hi Elizabeth
Overall it sounds as though your puppy is doing well, but I think separation anxiety is what is causing the problems you describe.

Some dogs are more prone to this sort of behavior than others, especially if they're a little on the anxious or 'clingy' side to start with. Your puppy gets so upset when you leave that she gets hysterical and can't help crying and even eliminating.

There are things you can do to reduce her anxiety, some are simple, others require some training and behavior modification. Luckily your puppy is still young and you have plenty of time to work with her and get this behavior under control.

I would advise you to read my Separation Anxiety In Your Dog page and follow the links to the other pages that deal with different aspects and treatment for this situation. I think you'll find lots of helpful tips and advice there.

With lots of love, patience and the appropriate training etc. your puppy should be able to overcome this extreme anxiety and you will both feel much better :o)