you know, i think there is too much talk in your relationship and not enough action. anyone who would force a dog to stare at a wall is being abusive in my book. i also really don't like the way you are now minimizing the kicking and hitting. if your dog has separation anxiety then deal with that--not by trying to get the dog to dislike you. frankly, this does sound abusive to the dog to me, and i am having a hard time understanding how you just stood by and allowed it. this is your dog and you alone get to determine how he is disciplined. less talk and more action missbelle! if someone tried to force my dog to stare at anything they would be staring at the curb.