Expert: Breeder - 1/24/2007

Question
2 yr. old female bichon, rushes me to the door, barks and has fits when I try to leave w/o her.  I have always worked full time, son stays with her in a.m., I'm home for lunch 1/2 hr. then she was crated in pm.  As she matured, left her in kitchen w crate door open, good for months, one day jumped gate so took gate down.  No soiling, no damage.  She's not alone much, whenever I leave she does this and calms down shortly after.  She looks like she is screaming DON'T GO!!!!  But it is nerve wracking.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Bichons are very dependent dogs.  They want you around all the time.  I would ignore her frantic activity.  She settles down after you leave so there is really nothing to worry about.  The more attention you pay to her screaming the more she will do it.