Howling Dog

Comment

Comment by Debra Llacuna on February 2, 2010 at 12:17pm

Sounds like your dog has separation anxiety. In other words he does not want to be left alone. Can you see if you can have someone stay with him while your gone? If not, being that he is a husky/sheppard, these dogs need a lot of exercise and maybe a walk before you leave and again in the evenings is not enough. Try to take him to a dog park where he can play/exercise with you, or if you have a back yard take him out more often. These dogs have a lot of energy to burn and maybe he is getting bored staying at home while your gone. Daily exercise is a must, I cannot stress this enough. If you can find the time, it is a good idea to take him to a shelter that has an "open to the public" doggy park where he can play with other dogs and meet new people. This would be great for you too, because you can meet with other dog owners that maybe have or had, the same problem as you. If you go this route, once a week would be great.
You can also try (on your day off or sometime) this...... Go out of your house, when he starts howling go back in and say, "That's okay I'm here". Don't pet him or give any praise, just ignore him. Go out again, but this time stay out a little longer, and go back in again whether he is howling or not. Practice this, staying outside longer and longer each time. Your dog should be confident that you will return eventually, and hopefully get rid of these howling episodes. Best regards, Debbie