Separation anxiety in dogs is a common problem that can be stressful for both the dog and the owner. A dog that becomes anxious when left alone may bark, howl, chew things up, urinate indoors or show other signs of severe stress. It is rarely a matter of disobedience. In many cases, the behaviour is an expression of fear, insecurity or panic when the dog is separated from its owner.<\/p>\n
In this article, we go through common signs of separation anxiety in dogs, why the problem can arise and what solutions can help the dog feel safer when left home alone.<\/p>\n
Separation anxiety means that a dog experiences intense anxiety or stress when left alone, or when separated from a specific person in the household. This can manifest itself the moment the owner leaves the house, but also as soon as the dog senses that something is about to happen \u2013 for example, when you put on your jacket, pick up your keys or head towards the front door.<\/p>\n
Not all dogs that dislike being alone have separation anxiety. Some dogs are under-stimulated, bored or unaccustomed to being alone. In cases of genuine separation anxiety, the dog\u2019s reaction is often more intense and emotionally charged.<\/p>\n
Symptoms can vary from dog to dog. Some show obvious signs, whilst others become quiet and withdrawn. Here are some common signs to look out for:<\/p>\n
There are several possible reasons why a dog might develop separation anxiety. Sometimes there is a clear trigger, but not always.<\/p>\n
Common causes:<\/p>\n
It is also common for the problem to arise or worsen following changes in the dog\u2019s daily routine. A dog that has previously been able to cope with short periods of being left alone may start to react strongly if its routine changes.<\/p>\n
Training a dog out of separation anxiety requires patience, structure and consistency. The aim is for the dog to gradually learn that being alone is not dangerous.<\/p>\n
Training should begin at a stage when the dog is still calm. This may be as brief as a few seconds. Walk out the door, come back before the dog has time to get stressed, and repeat several times.<\/p>\n
Increase the duration very gradually. If the dog starts barking, howling or showing signs of anxiety, you have probably increased the duration too much.<\/p>\n
Separation training isn\u2019t just about leaving the house. You can also train your dog to stay in another room whilst you\u2019re at home. Start with short distances and short periods of time.<\/p>\n
Example:<\/p>\n
Avoid dramatic goodbyes. If you become emotional or stressed yourself, your dog may perceive the situation as more tense. Try to leave and return home in a calm and uneventful manner.<\/p>\n
This doesn\u2019t mean you should ignore your dog completely, but keep the atmosphere calm and reassuring.<\/p>\n
For some dogs, it can help to associate short periods of being alone with something positive, such as a chew bone, a filled activity toy or a treat hunt. This works best if the dog is still calm enough to eat.<\/p>\n
If the dog refuses to eat when left alone, it is probably too stressed, in which case the training needs to be scaled back to a simpler level.<\/p>\n
A dog that has had the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation often finds it easier to relax. Walks, nose work, everyday obedience training and problem-solving can help the dog become more balanced.<\/p>\n
At the same time, it is important not to overstimulate the dog just before it is due to be left alone. Some dogs need to wind down properly after being active.<\/p>\n
A simple dog camera or mobile phone camera can help you see what\u2019s actually happening when you\u2019re out walking. That way, you can tell whether your dog gets stressed straight away, after a few minutes, or only after a longer period of time.<\/p>\n
This makes it easier to tailor your training to the right level.<\/p>\n
If the dog is frequently left alone for longer than it can cope with, this can increase its stress levels. During the training period, temporary solutions may therefore be needed, such as a dog sitter, a dog walker, a family member, or the option of taking the dog with you.<\/p>\n
The important thing is that the dog has plenty of positive experiences of short, safe separations.<\/p>\n
When a dog shows signs of separation anxiety, it\u2019s easy to get frustrated, especially if neighbours complain or things get broken. But some methods risk making the problem worse.<\/p>\n
Avoid:<\/p>\n
The dog doesn\u2019t need to \u2018be taught a lesson\u2019. It needs to feel safe.<\/p>\n
If your dog panics when left alone, harms itself, barks for long periods or shows no improvement despite training, it is wise to seek professional help. A dog trainer, dog psychologist or behaviourist can help draw up a personalised training plan.<\/p>\n
It may also be a good idea to contact your vet, especially if the behaviour has started suddenly. Pain, illness or age-related changes can affect your dog\u2019s sense of security and stress levels.<\/p>\n
Yes, many dogs can become much more confident with the right training. How long this takes depends on the dog\u2019s age, background, stress levels and how long the problem has been present. Some dogs make rapid progress, whilst others need a longer and more gradual process.<\/p>\n
The most important thing is to take training one small step at a time and to let the dog succeed. The aim is not to force the dog to stay put, but to build a sense of security.<\/p>\n
Separation anxiety in dogs is a stress-related problem that can manifest itself through barking, howling, destructive behaviour, restlessness or accidents indoors. It is not a sign of defiance or poor training, but rather an indication that the dog is struggling to cope with being separated from its owner.<\/p>\n
Through gradual training in being left alone, calm routines, positive reinforcement and the right level of stimulation, many dogs can learn to be more relaxed when left on their own. For more serious problems, it is advisable to seek help from a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist.<\/p>\n