Coco's Story
Screaming when left alone with neighbours complaining. Stays home alone for 6+ hours calmly.
THE CHALLENGE
What Emma Was Dealing With
Coco was a one-year-old Cavoodle who couldn't be left alone for even five minutes. The moment Emma walked out the door Coco would start screaming — not barking, screaming. The neighbours in their Ponsonby apartment had complained multiple times and the building manager had issued a formal warning.
Coco had also destroyed the front door frame, chewed through a crate and ripped up carpet trying to escape. Emma had tried leaving the TV on, puzzle toys, calming supplements and even a second dog (her parents' dog) but nothing worked. Coco only wanted Emma.
Emma was working from home to manage the situation but her employer was requiring a return to the office three days a week. She had two months to find a solution or she would need to rehome Coco.
OUR APPROACH
How We Trained Coco
Separation anxiety is one of the most challenging behavioural issues because the dog is genuinely panicking. Our approach was methodical and compassionate, building Coco's confidence and independence gradually.
We started by teaching Coco that being away from Emma wasn't the end of the world. This meant structured separation practice within the house first — Emma in one room, Coco in another — building duration slowly. We introduced crate training as a safe space, not a prison, using positive associations and gradual exposure.
The desensitisation protocol involved dozens of practice departures, starting with just touching the door handle and building up to full departures. We also addressed Coco's overall dependence on Emma by teaching her to settle independently and find comfort in her own company rather than constantly seeking reassurance.
THE RESULT
Coco Today
Coco now happily stays home alone for Emma's full work day. She settles in her crate with a stuffed Kong and sleeps for most of the time Emma is out. The screaming has stopped completely and the neighbours have commented on how quiet she is.
The building manager withdrew the formal warning after two months of zero complaints. Emma returned to the office with complete confidence that Coco was fine at home. She checks the camera occasionally and usually finds Coco napping.
The key breakthrough was around session four when Coco started voluntarily going to her crate to relax. That was the moment both Emma and Coco realised that alone time wasn't something to fear.
“I was facing the possibility of rehoming Coco because of the separation anxiety. Now she happily sleeps in her crate while I'm at work. The neighbours can't believe it's the same dog. 100%K9 gave us our life back.”
AT A GLANCE
Training Summary
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Ready for Your Own Transformation?
Emma thought Coco's behaviour was hopeless. Look at them now. Your dog deserves the same chance.