Understanding and Managing Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Signs, Causes & Practical Solutions

Does your dog panic when you leave the house? Do you come home to chewed furniture, accidents inside, or complaints from neighbours about constant barking or howling? If so, your dog might be experiencing separation anxiety — a serious emotional challenge for both dogs and their humans.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what separation anxiety in dogs is, explore the common causes and signs, and provide practical tips you can use to start helping your dog today.

What is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Separation anxiety is a condition where a dog experiences significant stress, anxiety and fear when separated from their human companion. It’s not the same as boredom or general misbehaviour. Dogs experiencing separation anxiety aren't being “naughty”; they’re having a hard time coping emotionally.

Why Do Dogs Develop Separation Anxiety?

There’s no single cause, but there are several common contributing factors, including:

• Sudden changes in routine (e.g. returning to work after time at home; travel)

• Rehoming or shelter background

• Loss of a family member (human or animal)

• Lack of positive experience being alone during early development

• Trauma or negative experiences when alone (e.g. a storm or loud noise)

Some dogs may also be more predisposed due to their temperament or early socialisation history.

Common Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

While each dog is different, signs often include:

• Vocalising (barking, howling, whining) shortly after you leave

• Destructive behaviour (e.g. digging, chewing doors, windows, or furniture)

• Attempting to escape the house or yard

• Pacing, panting, drooling, or other signs of stress

• Toileting indoors even though they’re usually house-trained

• Shadowing you when you’re home and becoming distressed when you prepare to leave

If these behaviours only occur when your dog is left alone, it’s likely related to separation anxiety.

Dogs experiencing separation anxiety often look for their owners constantly.

Practical Tips to Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Helping your dog feel more comfortable with separation takes time and patience. Here are some science-based, kind strategies to get started:

1. Rule Out Medical Issues

Always start with a vet check to ensure there are no underlying health problems contributing to the behaviour, especially if the signs started suddenly.

2. Create a Predictable Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. Try to keep your daily schedule consistent so your dog feels more secure knowing what to expect.

3. Avoid Punishment

Punishment only increases fear and anxiety. Remember, your dog isn’t misbehaving — they’re having an emotional response they can’t control.

4. Start Gradual Alone-Time Training

This involves desensitising your dog to your absence in small steps:

• Begin with very short absences (e.g. a minute or two).

• Return before your dog shows distress.

• Gradually build up the time you're away.

• Pair your departure with a high value long lasting treat to help build a positive association with your absence.

This process, called graduated departure training, is most successful when it's tailored to your individual dog’s needs.

5. Use Enrichment to Encourage Independence

Make alone-time more positive by offering:

• Long-lasting food toys (e.g. KONGs, lick mats)

• Snuffle mats or food puzzles

• Calming music, the TV or radio

Introduce these while you're still home so your dog doesn’t associate them only with your departure.

6. Teach Calm Departures and Arrivals

Keep comings and goings low-key. Over-the-top greetings can reinforce the idea that separations are a big deal.

7. Seek Professional Help

If your dog’s anxiety is moderate to severe, working with a qualified behaviour professional (like a Certified Applied Animal Behaviourist or Fear Free Certified Trainer) is essential. In some cases, veterinary-prescribed medication may also be needed to help your dog cope while training is underway.

Reinforce calm and relaxed behaviour and time spent alone.

Supporting Dogs Through Separation Takes Compassion and Time

Separation anxiety can be frustrating — but with the right support, it’s also treatable. By understanding the emotional drivers behind the behaviour and using kind, science-backed approaches, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and confident being alone.

If you're unsure where to start, consulting with a qualified animal behaviourist is the best way to get personalised support tailored to your dog’s needs.

Need Help With Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety?
Check out my eBook Guide to Preventing or Minimising Separation Anxiety in Your Dog and How to Resolve Separation Anxiety in Your Dog webinar. I also offer expert in person and online behaviour consultations to help pet parents address separation anxiety and other behavioural concerns with kindness and science. Visit www.petbehavingbadly.com.au to learn more.