Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Signs, Causes, and What Actually Helps

Few things are harder than walking out the door knowing your dog is panicking behind it. Separation anxiety in dogs is one of the most common behavioural issues pet owners face — and one of the most misunderstood. The good news: once you recognise the signs, there are practical separation anxiety solutions that can make a genuine difference for both of you.

Recognising the Signs of Separation Anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety don't just "miss you a little." Their distress is real and often intense. Knowing the difference between normal settling-in behaviour and genuine anxiety is the first step toward helping your dog.

Common signs include:

• Excessive barking, howling, or whining that starts shortly after you leave
• Destructive chewing or scratching at doors, windows, and crates
• Pacing, drooling, or panting that isn't related to heat or exercise
• Toileting indoors despite being fully house-trained
• Refusing to eat or drink while alone
• Frantic, over-the-top greetings when you return — even after short absences

If these behaviours only happen when your dog is alone (or about to be), anxiety is the likely cause rather than boredom or lack of training.

What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

There's rarely a single trigger. Anxiety around being alone tends to develop from a mix of temperament, experience, and routine disruption.

Common contributing factors:

• Change in routine — a new work schedule, moving house, or a family member leaving the household
• Rehoming or shelter history — dogs who have been surrendered or rehomed are statistically more prone
• Lack of early alone-time exposure — puppies that are never gradually taught to be alone can struggle as adults
• Traumatic event — a frightening experience (loud noises, a break-in) that occurred while the dog was home alone
• Breed predisposition — some breeds bond intensely with their people and find solo time harder to cope with

Understanding the root cause helps you choose the right approach. A dog whose anxiety started after a house move may need different support than one who has been anxious since puppyhood.

Practical Solutions for Dogs with Separation Anxiety

There is no overnight fix, but consistent, layered strategies produce real results. The goal isn't to eliminate your dog's attachment to you — it's to teach them that being alone is safe and temporary.

Graduated departures. Start by leaving for just a few seconds, then return calmly. Slowly increase the duration over days and weeks. This teaches your dog that you always come back.

Low-key exits and arrivals. Dramatic goodbyes and excited returns reinforce the idea that your departure is a big event. Keep things calm and matter-of-fact.

Independence building. Encourage your dog to settle on their own bed or mat while you're in a different room. Reward calm, relaxed behaviour rather than constant proximity.

Physical and mental exercise. A tired dog is a calmer dog. A solid walk or play session before you leave, paired with a long-lasting chew or puzzle feeder, gives your dog something positive to focus on.

Background sound. Leaving on calm music, a podcast, or white noise can mask outside triggers and create a sense of company. Several studies suggest classical music can lower canine stress markers.

Calming Products Worth Considering

Behavioural training is the foundation, but the right calming products can support your dog through the process — especially in the early stages when anxiety is high.

Pheromone diffusers and collars, such as those in the Adaptil range, release a synthetic version of the calming pheromone nursing dogs produce. Many owners notice a visible reduction in stress-related behaviours within the first week or two of use.

Other options include calming supplements with ingredients like L-tryptophan, casein, or B vitamins, and pressure wraps that apply gentle, constant pressure to your dog's torso.

Browse our full range of products for dogs to find calming aids, chews, and diffusers that fit your dog's needs. Layering a calming product with the behavioural strategies above tends to deliver the best outcome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Punishment. Scolding your dog for destruction or indoor toileting that happened while you were out is counterproductive. Your dog won't connect the punishment with the earlier behaviour — it will only increase their anxiety around your return.

Getting a second pet "for company." If the anxiety is specifically about your absence, another animal in the house won't fix it. You may simply end up with two stressed pets.

Flooding. Leaving an anxious dog alone for hours and hoping they'll "get used to it" usually makes things worse. Gradual exposure at a pace your dog can handle is far more effective.

Inconsistency. Working on alone-time training three days a week and then abandoning it won't build confidence. Short, daily practice sessions deliver faster progress than occasional long ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs grow out of separation anxiety on their own?

It's unlikely without intervention. Mild cases may improve if a dog's routine stabilises, but moderate to severe anxiety tends to persist — or worsen — without structured behaviour work and support.

How long does it take to see improvement?

Every dog is different. Some show noticeable progress within a few weeks of consistent training and calming product use, while more severe cases can take several months. Patience and consistency are key.

Is separation anxiety more common in certain breeds?

Breeds developed for close human partnership — such as working and companion breeds — do appear more susceptible. However, any dog of any breed or mix can develop anxiety around being alone, particularly after a significant life change.

Helping a dog overcome anxiety when left alone takes time, but it's absolutely achievable. Start with gradual departures, pair training with a calming aid, and stay consistent. If your dog's anxiety is severe or not improving, have a chat with your vet about a tailored behaviour plan. Ready to explore calming support? Browse our full dog range to find what suits your pup.