How to Spot and Treat Separation Anxiety in Dogs, According to Experts

Separation anxiety is a common issue for dogs, causing them to panic when left alone or separated from their owners.

Pet nutrition expert Emma Lee from Burns Pet Food recently shared key signs to look out for and advice on how to manage this challenging condition.

What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Dogs can develop separation anxiety for a variety of reasons. Genetics play a role, with some breeds being more prone to anxiety.

Poor breeding practices can also contribute—particularly if a puppy’s mother was stressed or anxious.

Other triggers include hyper-attachment to owners, trauma, major lifestyle changes (like a new baby or the loss of a loved one), and insufficient exercise or mental stimulation.

Signs Your Dog Might Have Separation Anxiety

Common signs of separation anxiety in dogs include:

• Barking or howling when left alone
• Destructive behavior, such as chewing or ripping up furniture
• Excessive pacing and difficulty settling down
• House soiling, even if the dog is typically housetrained
• Refusing to eat when left by themselves

These behaviors indicate that your dog may be struggling to cope with your absence.

How to Help a Dog with Separation Anxiety

Emma Lee emphasizes the importance of meeting your dog’s basic needs, including regular exercise, proper toileting, and consistent training.

Creating a safe, comforting space at home can also help.

One effective technique is gradual desensitization, where you slowly expose your dog to the trigger (in this case, being left alone) in short, low-intensity sessions.

Gradually increase the time and intensity while rewarding calm behavior with treats or praise. It’s important to avoid punishing anxious reactions, as this can worsen the anxiety.

In severe cases, you might need to consult a vet or professional behaviorist.

A vet can rule out medical issues and provide a referral to a behaviorist, who can offer specialized training and support.

With patience and the right approach, dogs with separation anxiety can learn to feel safe and comfortable when home alone.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.