Hello. I joined the forum to see if I could pick up any advice on how to deal with my new dog. He is a cross breed, approximately 2 1/2 to 3 years old and has been in the dog's home for almost 2 years. I assume from his behaviour, that he has Separation Anxiety, which is hardly surprising given his 2 year stay in the kennels.

He has now been with me for 2 weeks and I'm patiently trying to work my way through this anxious period for him. The anxiety is expressed in defaecating and urinating in the house, only when I'm not there, and occurs immediately after I leave, as even a 2 minute separation, whilst I'm in the driveway (where he can see me from the window) has resulted in such actions. He also has destructive tendencies way beyond his size, such as chewing doors, ripping off letterboxes, digging under carpets...no exit is spared!

My first thought was to get a baby gate. He jumped this effortlessly. I was then advised to get a crate. He has become the Houdini of the dog world, he got out! I have tightened all the clips on the crate so that I THINK it is now impossible for him to do this again, but I am now so worried that he will injure or even kill himself when left in the crate whilst I'm upstairs, that I've taken to sleeping on the sofa. When I'm downstairs with him, even if I make no contact with him, he is fine in it. I leave the door open all day, give him food and treats in there so that he knows it's a good place, and I do not reprimand him for his behaviour so that he doesn't get more stressed. I live in a rented house and he has almost destroyed the front door prior to getting the crate. I can live with the mess, but not the damage as it isn't my house, hence the crate.

Otherwise, this dog is adorable, well behaved and very affectionate. Giving up is not an option. If I never had to leave him, there'd be no problem, but I have to work for a living. My son helps where he can by staying with him when taking him with me isn't possible, but I find it's easier to take him where I can, as he's no problem in the car.

Am I doing everything right? Are there any suggestions for keeping him safe in the crate? Will I ever be able to sleep in my bed again?