How to Calm a Dog with Separation Anxiety?

Does your dog start acting nervous when they see you getting ready to leave? Do they go absolutely wild with excitement when you come back? Have you ever come home to find your shoes chewed up, scratch marks on the door, or a chunk missing from the furniture?

If so, your pup might be dealing with separation anxiety.

What Is It?

Separation anxiety happens when a dog is overly attached to their owner and gets extremely stressed when left alone. It’s not just a little whining or minor mischief—it’s a serious issue. In fact, it’s one of the main reasons people get frustrated and give up their dogs. But don’t worry—there are ways to help!

First, it’s important to understand what might be causing your dog’s anxiety:

• Being left alone for the first time or after always having company
• A change in ownership
• Moving from a shelter to a home
• A shift in the family’s routine or schedule
• The loss of a family member

By identifying the cause, you can start taking steps to make your pup feel more secure.

Also Read: How to Stop a Dog from Digging in the Yard?

Signs of Separation Anxiety

A dog with separation anxiety gets really stressed when left alone. You might notice them:

• Howling, barking, or whining nonstop
• Having accidents indoors, even though they’re house-trained
• Chewing things up, digging holes, or scratching at doors and windows
• Drooling or panting way more than usual
• Pacing in a repeated pattern
• Trying to escape

The key difference? They usually don’t do these things when you’re home. While any dog might act out occasionally, one with separation anxiety does it almost every time they’re left alone.

Also Read: Why does My Dog Eat Poop, and How do I Stop it?

How to Treat It

First, check with your vet to rule out any health issues. Sometimes, accidents in the house happen because of infections, hormone imbalances, or other medical conditions. It could also be due to incomplete house training or even a side effect of medication. If your dog is on any meds, ask your vet if they might be causing the problem.

If the Problem Is Mild…

• Give your dog a special treat, like a peanut butter-filled puzzle toy, every time you leave. Only offer it when you’re gone and take it away when you return.
• Keep arrivals and departures calm. Avoid big greetings—ignore your pup for the first few minutes after getting home.
• Leave out some of your recently worn clothes that smell like you.
• Consider trying natural calming supplements made for dogs.

If the Problem Is More Serious…

If your dog has severe anxiety, even their favorite treat won’t be enough to distract them. You’ll need to gradually help them get used to being alone.

Start by breaking the connection between your actions and leaving. If your dog gets nervous when you put on your shoes or grab your keys, do those things—but don’t leave. Put on your shoes and then sit down. Pick up your keys and watch TV. Repeat this several times a day until your dog stops reacting.

Once they seem less anxious, practice short separations. Ask your dog to stay, then step into another room and close the door. Return after a few seconds. Gradually increase the time you’re gone. When they’re comfortable with that, try using an outside door—but not the one you normally leave through. Make sure they’re calm before you go.

Only you can tell when your dog is ready to be left alone for longer periods, so don’t rush it. When they’re handling short absences well, reward them with a stuffed treat after about 10 seconds apart. Stay calm when you leave and when you return. Slowly build up the time until you can step outside for a few minutes, then longer and longer.

Also Read: How do I Teach My Dog Not to Jump on Guests?

For All Dogs…

Make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise every day. A tired dog is a happy dog, and less likely to feel stressed when you’re gone. Mental stimulation is just as important—play training games, fetch, or give them interactive puzzles to keep their brain busy. If your dog is still struggling, talk to your vet or a certified animal behaviorist for extra guidance.