How To Deal With Separation Anxiety in Your Dog
Heading back to school or back to the office? While this may be a joyous occasion for some, your dog may be feeling otherwise.
Whether you’re returning to the workplace or going back to school, leaving your dog at home alone isn’t an easy task. A change of routine can be disruptive to your pooch if they have never been left alone before. This can lead to separation anxiety and even panic, which can manifest itself into destructive behaviour, toileting in the house, whining or even barking.
Getting your pup used to this new schedule can seem daunting, but it is important that they don’t feel worried or stressed while you’re away. Keeping them occupied and stress-free and practising leaving them on their own can help ease any anxiety they may be feeling.
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Dogs with separation anxiety can exhibit a number of different behaviours when they are left alone, from destructive chewing to howling and barking. It can be tricky to recognise these signs as you’re not there to see your dog display them, but if you find yourself coming home to destroyed furniture, toilet accidents or their refusal to leave your side, you may have a case of separation anxiety.
Common Signs:
- Barking/Howling
- Urinating/defecating in the house
- Destructive chewing
- Destructive digging
- Trembling or pacing

Causes of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
There is no exact reason why some dogs develop separation anxiety and others don’t, but there are certain situations that can trigger it.
- Change of Routine
A sudden change in routine, such as their owners returning to the office after working from home for a long period, can trigger separation anxiety in dogs.
- Change of Family or Home
Moving from a shelter to a new residence or given to a new guardian can cause separation anxiety to develop.
- Not Accustomed to Being Left Alone
With the rise of dog ownership during Covid lockdown, it’s comes as no surprise that many of these dogs are now suffering separation anxiety from their owners, as they are not used to being left alone. Going from 24/7 access to their owners to suddenly being on their own can be a stressful and frightening time for dogs.
Treating Separation Anxiety
Our range of calming treatments for dogs are hugely beneficial in cases of mild to moderate anxiety. They come in handy in a variety of situations, including travelling, separation anxiety, thunderstorms, fireworks, meeting new people and dogs, and erratic sleep patterns.
CBD Oil can sometimes help decrease anxiety or stress related behaviours. These Cold pressed hemp oils are packed full of essential minerals, antioxidants and Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids which are essential for supporting your pets joints and immune system.
2.ADAPTIL Pheromone Plug-In Diffuser
This product is an excellent solution to help your dog stay calm and adapt at home, in situations like staying alone, loud noises, visitors and fears.
3.MIDWEST Contour Single Door Dog Crate
Crates are great for helping your pet with anxiety and stress. Sometimes, being in a smaller, confined space not only makes your dog feel safer and more protected, but also forces them to be more still, which can ultimately calm them down.
Toys provide mental stimulation, helping to keep your dog’s mind occupied and reducing feelings of boredom or anxiety. Interactive toys such as the M-Pets Brainy Games can be particularly effective, as they require your dog to work out how to get to a treat or other reward.
The PETLIFE KarmaWrap is based on the principal of swaddling, providing gentle pressure at key points of your dog’s body which help to calm and reassure.
Other ways to tackle separation anxiety include practising leaving your dog alone. Start off for a short period, and gradually build up the periods you are away. Don’t make a fuss when you leave or when you arrive home. In fact, you should ignore him when you first come home, and then give him a few pets after a few minutes.
A crate is also very useful to help combat anxiety, as it acts a safe place for him to relax. Furnish your dog’s crate with a comfy bed and his favourite toy. It is important that crate training is done correctly as to avoid negative connotations.
Make sure your pup gets lots of exercise and physical activity every day. A tired, happy dog will be less stressed and anxious when you leave.
As always, if you are very concerned about your pet’s wellbeing, visit your local veterinarian.