A Guide to Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Leaving your dog at home should be stress-free for both of you, but behaviour issues when you're out can leave any pet owner feeling stuck. While separation anxiety isn't as common as many people think, it is frequently misunderstood.

To help clear up the confusion, our friends at Ginger’s Way dog training break down what separation anxiety actually looks like, what to avoid, and how to gradually help your dog feel safe and comfortable on their own.

---

Separation Anxiety: A guide by Ginger's Way

This is no joke—as the name says, it’s real anxiety! It isn’t our dogs "acting up" because we left them alone, nor is it revenge because we didn't let them on the couch last night.

It’s a panic attack where a dog becomes extremely distressed when left alone or separated from their person. Your dog is experiencing genuine fear, and fear doesn’t just go away on its own.

Common Signs

1. Barking or howling when alone

2. Destructive behavior

3. Scratching the door trying to escape

4. Potty accidents (even in house-trained dogs)

5. Excessive drooling, panting or pacing when alone or when owner is getting ready to leave

6. Freezing in position and staring blankly

Things that don’t help

1. Letting your dog "cry it out"

2. Locking your dog in a crate

3. Using aversive tools (like bark collars) to stop them barking

4. Leaving them alone for longer periods than they can handle

What actually helps

Fix other non-anxiety causes of the behavior

Start with a vet check to rule out underlying health issues or pain. Ensure your dog is fully house-trained and that their daily needs are fully met, including exercise, mental enrichment, proper food and physical safety. Soundproof your home and block visual triggers if necessary.

Prevent Panic

Whenever possible, try to only leave your dog alone for periods of time they can comfortably handle. For example, if your dog can be left alone for 15 minutes before starting to show stress signals, avoid leaving them home alone for longer. Arrange pet sitting, or use doggy daycare when you need to be away longer.

Teach Independence Gradually

Start with very short periods of time (even if that means just taking out the trash and coming back). Slowly increase the duration if your dog remains relaxed. Use a pet camera to monitor their body language so you can return before your dog panics.

Keep departures and arrivals calm

Your dog already knows you're leaving, so you don’t need goodbyes, or to kiss them on the forehead and say "Mommy will be right back". That actually builds up anticipation and stress.

Also, if you return and make the biggest party ever, it teaches your dog to anxiously await for that awesome reunion where you both party together. Don't make a fuss and don’t give treats when you come back. Wait for the excitement to pass and the dog to calm down before giving them attention.

Stay calm, neutral and quiet when leaving and returning.

Be patient! Progress is never linear

– Ginger's Way –

---

SDC Foster & Adopter Support Group

For our current foster families and recent adopters: you don't have to do this by yourself! You are welcome to join our support group, where the team at Ginger's Way holds regular online sessions to assist you and your dog as they settle in. Contact your coordinator or the SDC adoption team for details!

Email Adoption Team