Be persistent in your efforts. Don’t give up. If your puppy gets out of his cage, find a way to secure it so he can’t get out. Lock it with a padlock or clamp or tie it with heavy rope. This should keep him secure while you’re gone but don’t be surprised if he tries to find a way out. And if there is any possible way of escape, he will find it.

Remember that some puppies can only be left alone for a few minutes before panic sets in. Your puppy knows that you’ve left and has no way of knowing if or when you’ll return. Use positive reinforcement, recognize his fears, reassure him at a time when you’re not leaving the house, develop a plan to help him overcome his anxiety and evaluate if the situation is improving.

Teach you puppy basic commands such as lay down, sit and stay. When he obeys, talk to him in a soothing voice. When he is successful, praise him, pet him and give him a small treat.

When you leave the house for extended periods of time, leave a radio or TV going. Some puppies enjoy music and will lie quietly and listen to it while you’re away. Your puppy will soon learn to treat the voice of the announcer as that of a member of his pack and he will remain clam if you always put on the same station.

Your puppy will know when you are getting ready to leave. He will read your body language as you dress, slip on your shoes and pick up the car keys. If you believe your puppy is picking up on these clues, dress early, put on your shoes and take them off several times. Pick up the car keys and lay them back down, and remain at the house for a few minutes. If you do this everyday, your puppy will soon be desensitized and will no longer look for these clues. Once he ignores the signs, gather your things and leave quickly.

If nothing seems to work and your puppy is still panicking when you leave, take him to a professional dog trainer who specializes in behavior. Chances are he will be able to pinpoint exactly where you’re going wrong.