Sheba Inu

Question
Hi,
I have a cream colored Sheba Inu (Zoey) 8 months old.  We worked with her as a wee pup, housebreaking, manners etc. My husband was home on sick leave for the first 3 months we had her. No problems with her when she was alone then. We give her exercise and lots of attention when we get home, however within the past 2 weeks she has been destructive, chewing furniture fabric, window screens, etc.  Is this separation anxiety?  Why is she doing this now? Nothing in her environment has changed.  We now crate her when we are are at work, but it breaks my heart knowing she never touched anything before? Can you give me some advise on how to work with her to stop this behavior?
Thank you very much!
Mary

Answer

Hi Mary,

I can't guess at why Zoey has just started chewing. This current destructive habit may or may not be a separation anxiety.

Until you're sure Zoey is over this phase, don't give her the run of your home when you're not around to supervise her. When you leave the house, Zoey should either be crated, or contained in another way. Using child-gates or an indoor dog pen are other popular ways to contain dogs.

Shiba Inu's are famous for becoming destructive when bored or left alone too much. For this reason, be sure exercise to Zoey just prior to leaving her alone. Also be sure to give her something to do while you're gone. A Kong toy stuffed with some tasty treats is a good way of occupying a dog, as it provides mental stimulation. She'll work VERY hard at de-stuff the Kong. For a dog, it's the same as a difficult crossword puzzle or a math problem... after she's done, she'll probably shake herself, lie down, and sleep.

I hope that helps!
Best of luck,

Patti