Separation anxiety

Why does separation anxiety happen?

There are many reasons why separation anxiety can develop in dogs. Big life changes, health issues, pain, or previous bad experiences can all be triggers of separation anxiety for dogs.

Boredom and frustration when left alone can also result in separation anxiety related behaviours.

You know your own dog best, if they display a sudden change in behaviour, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any health concerns before addressing behavioural issues.

How to help a dog with separation anxiety

There’s no easy fix for separation anxiety but with the right tools and training, it can be managed.

Some lifestyle changes can help your dog feel more comfortable with being left alone. Keeping a consistent routine can build trust and confidence as your dog knows what to expect, and understands that you will come home again.

Encouraging your dog to entertain themselves and rely less on your undivided attention can be another way to build confidence and reduce separation anxiety.

When leaving your dog alone

Regardless if your dog has separation anxiety or not, here are some ways to make sure they feel safe and comfortable while you’re out.

• Make sure that your dog has had enough mental and physical stimulation before you leave them.
• When you go, leave them with a safe enrichment activity like a Kong toy filled with their favourite spreadable snack, even better if it’s been frozen to make it last longer!
• Don’t make a big fuss when you leave, the calmer you are, the more calm and confident they will feel too.
• Soft background noise like calming classical music can help them decompress and relax.
• Establish a ‘safe space’ with your dog where they’re happy to relax.
• When introducing a new pet to your home, start slowly with leaving them home alone. Start by stepping out for just a few minutes at a time and slowly build up their tolerance. This is where a camera can be a useful tool!

When to seek professional help

If you’re not seeing any improvement in your dog’s separation anxiety related behaviour, and it’s interfering with your lives and causing stress, it’s probably time to call an expert.

Professional dog trainers can help provide individualised training tools that will help your dog’s specific situation.

If you and your dog are struggling with separation anxiety, sooner is better to seek professional advice.

Common questions about separation anxiety

Will they grow out of it?

Separation anxiety is not something a dog will naturally grow out of without careful training and management. Helping a dog with separation anxiety takes time, patience, and consistent effort.

How long does it take to train?

This will be different for every dog and every individual situation. Some dogs may show significant improvement in a matter of months and others will need extra support and care their whole lives.

Will crate training help?

Providing a safe, familiar space for your dog can help them feel more secure when left alone. This could be a crate, a cosy corner of a quiet room, or any other previously established safe space.

Can I still leave them alone if they have separation anxiety?

Ideally, you shouldn’t leave a dog who struggles with separation anxiety alone at all. As much as you can, find a trusted person to stay with them while you’re out.

Of course, this isn’t always possible so try to minimise the time they’re left alone as much as possible and follow our advice to create a calm and secure environment for them when you do have to leave them.

How long can you leave a dog on their own?

Every dog owner will give you a different answer to this question and there’s no ‘one size fits all’ solution.

As a general rule, try not to leave your dog for any longer than four hours at a time. When you do leave them, make sure they have access to fresh water and safe enrichment activities. Read our article on crate training for more information.