Separation Anxiety

[Adam]

Hello to everyone.

I am a former greyhound owner who had the wonderful opportunity to adopt two 3.5 year old retired racers.   They are recently adopted and I understand everything is new to them and it will take time to adjust to things.  When we are home there are zero issues and they couldn't be wonderful; however, when I leave the apartment one of them exhibits severe anxiety and will begin whining and howling almost immediately.    We have a crate that we use to try and reinforce it is his safe zone - I am leaving and exiting in short intervals - following all of the steps you read about and so far it does not seem to be working.   Granted I understand it may take time but just wanted to ask the group if they have any additional recommendations. 

[HeyRunDog]

Unless you are using the crate for safety reasons don't get hung up on using it unless the dogs uses it voluntarily.

Be consistent with how you leave them. I put my shoes and coat on without interacting with Grace, grab my keys, put a prefilled Kong on her bed saying "Goodbye, be good" and leave.

Also get yourself a cheap baby/pet webcam monitor so you can observe what the dogs are doing when you are properly out of sight and sound. I think they can sense when you are still nearby.

[zimsmom]

Are you using a Kong or licking mat?  May help.