Separation anxiety in dogs is a common behavioral challenge that pet parents face. It is often triggered when dogs are left alone or separated from their pet parent or favorite humans. Dogs with separation anxiety may display stress behaviors that can affect their emotional well-being and even their physical health.
The good news? With the right mix of veterinary care, behavioral support, and at-home calming aids, separation anxiety can be managed. This Sploot Vets guide explores the signs of separation anxiety in dogs, treatment options, and helpful home remedies.
I. Are Some Dogs More Likely to Develop Separation Anxiety?
Yes, some dogs are more likely to develop separation anxiety. While there’s no conclusive way to predict which dogs will develop this condition, there are certain factors that make some dogs more vulnerable to separation anxiety. These include:
- Dogs That Are Used to Plenty of Quality Time – Dogs that are used to constant attention and companionship from their pet parent may be more likely to develop separation anxiety when left alone.
- Rescue or Shelter Dogs – Dogs that have been rehomed or experienced abandonment may be more prone to separation anxiety.
- Certain Breeds – Dogs bred for companionship (like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas) and highly social working breeds (like Border Collies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers) may be more likely to struggle when left alone.
- Dogs Facing Sudden, Unfamiliar Changes – Moving homes, changes in family structure, or loss of a companion pet or pet parent can trigger separation anxiety in dogs.
- Senior Dogs – Senior dogs may experience separation anxiety, especially if cognitive decline or vision/hearing loss makes them feel more vulnerable.
II. Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
There are various signs of separation anxiety in dogs. If you observe any or all of the following, especially after your dog is left alone, this can indicate that they are suffering from separation anxiety.
1. Excessive Barking or Howling
Dogs may vocalize persistently when they are in distress. If a dog barks or howls when left alone, this is a common sign of separation anxiety in dogs.
2. Destructive Chewing
Dogs can, at times, try to soothe themselves by chewing. Aside from their favorite toys, furniture, doors, or shoes may also become chewing targets as dogs release stress from separation anxiety.
3. Pacing & Restlessness
Some dogs walk or pace in fixed patterns when they feel anxious about being left alone. This restless behavior can occur before or during the separation itself.
4. Potty Accidents in the House
Even housetrained dogs might urinate or defecate indoors due to separation anxiety. This happens because stress can activate the dog’s body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) that can override normal bladder and bowel control.
Note: Incontinence or unusual potty accidents in dogs can also be signs of other medical issues. Consult a vet promptly if you observe this symptom.
5, Drooling or Panting Excessively
Excessive drooling and panting can be signs of separation anxiety in dogs or stress in general, especially if the dog is showing these symptoms without exercising or being exposed to hot temperatures.
Note: Drooling and panting excessively can also be signs of pain in dogs, dehydration, and other medical issues. We recommend reaching out to a vet if you observe this symptom.
6. Attempts to Escape & Accidental Self-Injury
When experiencing separation anxiety, some dogs may try to escape or reunite with their owners. They may dig, bite, or claw at doors, crates, or walls in attempts to get out. As a result, dogs may accidentally damage these exit points or injure themselves in the process. Dogs can sustain paw injuries, damaged nails and teeth, and so on.
Note: If your dog has any injuries from trying to escape, contact an urgent care vet for guidance on proper dog wound care. You may be asked to bring your dog to the clinic if the injuries are severe.
7. Following Pet Parent Closely
Dogs with separation anxiety often follow their owners around the house, refusing to be left alone. This clingy behavior in dogs is their way of seeking reassurance and trying to prevent separation.
8. Overly Enthusiastic Welcome
Overly enthusiastic greetings from your dog every time you return can be a sign of underlying separation anxiety. These greetings may include jumping, whining, or frantic tail wagging that goes beyond normal excitement. Some dogs may also accidentally urinate due to overwhelming excitement or relief that their pet parent is back.
9. Loss of Appetite
Stress can reduce interest in food, especially when the dog is alone and/or in an unfamiliar environment (e.g., dog daycare, dog boarding facility). Some dogs may refuse meals until their owner returns, showing how separation anxiety can suppress normal appetite.
Note: Loss of appetite can contribute to unhealthy weight loss in dogs if left unaddressed. In addition, this symptom can also be a sign of other underlying health concerns. Consult a vet if your dog has a sudden or persistent loss of appetite.
III. Treating Separation Anxiety in Dogs
There are two main components of treating separation anxiety in dogs. These include:
1. Veterinary Consultation and Medications
A vet can rule out possible medical causes for symptoms connected to separation anxiety. After confirming that a dog has separation anxiety, vets may prescribe anti-anxiety medications or supplements to help regulate mood.
Your vet may also refer you to a veterinary behaviorist for severe cases or to a certified professional dog trainer for milder cases.
2. Behavioral Training
With the help of a veterinary behaviorist or dog trainer, your dog can undergo helpful and gentle behavior modification techniques for separation anxiety in dogs. These gradually teach dogs to feel calm when left alone.
Here are common behavior modification techniques that a professional might recommend for treating canine separation anxiety:
- Desensitization – Gradually exposing your dog to being alone in small, manageable steps to reduce fear over time.
- Counterconditioning –Pairing alone time with positive experiences, like treats or toys, to change how your dog feels about it.
Home Remedies for Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Home remedies for separation anxiety in dogs are not a substitute for professional treatment. However, in some cases, they can be helpful. It’s best to go over these with a veterinary behaviorist or dog trainer to choose the most beneficial ones for your dog.
1. Establish a Calm Departure Routine
Keep goodbyes low-key to avoid increasing your dog’s anxiety before you leave. By keeping departures and arrivals neutral, your dog learns that your coming and going is a normal part of the day.
2. Exercise Before Leaving
A short walk or play session before departures helps burn energy and lower stress for dogs. This can help them feel calmer while you’re away.
3. Provide Enrichment Toys
Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, lick bowls, or safe chew toys keep dogs mentally engaged. Mental stimulation helps redirect anxious energy into something rewarding. This can also reduce destructive behaviors caused by stress.
Note: Make sure that the toys you leave with your dog do NOT have pieces that can rip off easily. It’s always best to check the toys when you get back to make sure that your dog did not break and accidentally ingest any parts.
4. Leave Background Noise
Soothing music, TV, or white noise can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. Familiar sounds may also help mask outdoor noises that could trigger anxiety. This makes your dog’s environment feel safer and more consistent when you’re away.
Note: Have a fixed playlist for your dog and ensure that they won’t encounter any loud ads or be redirected to distressing videos or audio while you’re away.
5. Leave Comfort Items
Leave out a blanket, shirt, or item with your scent to provide reassurance. Your familiar smell can help your dog feel less lonely and more secure. This simple comfort can significantly reduce stress in your absence.
6. Use a Pet Camera
For some dogs, pet cameras can help soothe separation anxiety. These devices enable you to monitor and talk to your dog while you’re away. Some even have mobility features (wheels) and treat-dispensing capabilities, allowing you to positively interact with your dog while you’re away.
Note: Before leaving your dog with a pet camera, do some trial runs and reward calm behavior around the device. This helps your dog be familiar with the pet camera and reduces the chances of them being startled by its features.
7. Let Your Dog Try a ThunderShirt
ThunderShirts are a lightweight wrap for dogs that applies gentle, constant pressure to simulate the feeling of being held. For some dogs, this calming aid helps ease separation anxiety. Observe your dog’s behavior to see if the ThunderShirt is providing them comfort before considering long-term usage.
Note: Make sure that the ThunderShirt fits your dog appropriately, applying gentle pressure without cutting off circulation. When your dog first tries on the ThunderShirt, observe their behavior and remove it every one to two hours to check for redness or skin irritation.
8. Try Using a Pheromone Spray or Diffuser
Pheromone sprays and diffusers release synthetic copies of Dog Appeasing Pheromones (DAP) to help dogs feel at ease. In some cases, pheromone products help dogs with separation anxiety calm down. Pheromone sprays for dogs last for around 4 to 5 hours; meanwhile, pheromone diffusers release pheromones while they’re plugged.
Note: Always follow manufacturer instructions for pheromone diffusers and sprays, and keep devices out of your dog’s reach to prevent chewing, ingestion, or accidental damage.
9. Consider Dog Daycare or Other Alternatives
For dogs with severe anxiety, occasional daycare or a trusted pet sitter can provide companionship when you’re away. Social interaction helps prevent feelings of isolation. This is especially helpful for dogs that struggle with being alone for long periods.
Final Thoughts on Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation anxiety in dogs can be overwhelming for both dogs and their pet parents, but with patience and the right strategies, it’s manageable. Combining veterinary support, behavior training, and consistent at-home care can help your dog feel more secure when alone.
Sploot Vets: All-in-One Vet Care for Your Dog’s Health & Wellness
Sploot Vets offers all-in-one vet care for your dog’s health (preventive care, urgent care, and emergency services), including support for canine separation anxiety and other behavioral concerns.
Our Fear Free approach is especially helpful for anxious dogs, puppies, and senior dogs. Our dedicated team is here to provide top-tier care while ensuring your dog’s comfort.
With vet clinics in Chicago, Denver, and Colorado Springs, we’re open 365 days a year with extended hours that you can count on. Whether your pup needs a wellness exam, behavioral support, or urgent care, we are here for you!
Easily book an appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app!
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