Today I went to get my car detailed so I took him out to go potty first and gave him lots of toys to play with when I left like usual, I get a call from the apartment manager saying someone called to complain about my dog barking. I know he has severe separation anxiety so I rush home to get him and as soon as I am there he goes to bed. I have been working with him for a year+ trying to clear this problem up and I feel like I am running out of options. I have tried, training, the 4 step program, calming agent to put in his water, exercise before I leave, and treats when I go but nothing is working. I went to Petsmart to get a bark collar (the spray kind) and I almost started crying in the middle or the store like an ass, I don't like bark collars but I feel I don't have much of a choice.
I feel so bad because I don't want him to be so stressed when I leave, its not healthy for him and its breaking my heart. I cant even go pee without him clawing at the door and crying. I should be able to go run my errands without him freaking out. I don't want to get kicked out of my apartment because of his barking, this is his only problem. I bought 8 sessions with a personal trainer at Petsmart to see if she can help. I am frustrated with myself because I cannot find a way to make him feel better. I feel like a bad dog mommy.
