March 2011

 
ASK DR. SCHELLING

DEAR DR. SCHELLING,

I'm at my wits' end with my 3 year old Yellow Lab, Dudley. Ever since I increased my hours at work he's been on a destructive streak. He's eaten through several couch cushions and pillows, scratched the paint off the front door, and chewed shoes and various articles of clothing if I forget to put them away. This all seems to happen when I'm out. I tried crating him, but he literally flipped out, tore up his bed and soiled himself, so I didn't try that again. I thought maybe he was spending too much time alone all day, so I hired a dog walker, but it hasn't helped. I've been reading online about separation anxiety. Do you think Dudley has it, and what do you recommend?

-Worried about Dudley

Dear Worried,

This does sound like a pretty classic case of separation anxiety. You have (a) destructive behavior that happens when your dog is left alone; (b) it started after your schedule changed; and (c) crating just made matters worse. There are other rule-outs, such as storm or noise phobia. I recommend you consult your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist right away. Treatment for separation anxiety usually centers around promoting relaxation, improving confidence, and eliminating triggers. Medication can be very helpful too. So don't worry, there is hope for your Destructive Dudley! Click here to learn more about separation anxiety in dogs.

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Dear Max,

My dog is a 2 year old black Lab and she is driving me crazy with her uncontrollable chewing. So far she’s destroyed several pairs of shoes, eaten my socks and underwear, shredded some books, and she even went after the TV remote. I’m afraid to leave her alone because I don’t know what she’ll destroy next. I know puppies like to chew but I thought she should grow out of this by now. Please help!

–Frustrated in Framingham, MA

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Dear Frustrated,

Sorry to hear of your dog’s misdeeds. We canines love to chew, especially when we’re puppies. And I know plenty of Labs who were “puppies” until they went grey! If your dog’s habit is as bad as you describe, she may be anxious or bored. I’m afraid you’ll have to go back to basic training: dog-proof your house, crate or restrict your her when you can’t watch her, provide lots of exciting chew toys, and above all, make sure she is getting plenty of playtime and exercise to keep her calm and happy. Click here to learn more about destructive chewing in dogs.


Max

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Max's Mini-Reviews
 
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TO QUOTE:

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