Training and behaviour

Dog separation anxiety: signs and how to help

Some dogs find being left alone genuinely distressing. The RSPCA calls this separation-related behaviour. Here's how to spot it and what helps, based on the RSPCA's advice.

Signs to look for

Signs usually start within a few minutes to half an hour of you leaving, or just before. The RSPCA says around half of affected dogs show no obvious signs while their owners are there, so a camera can help you see what happens when you're out.

  • Chewing or damage, especially around doors and windows
  • Howling, barking or whining
  • Weeing or pooing indoors
  • Being very worked up before you leave, or when you come back
  • Trembling, panting or drooling
  • Pacing, circling or other repeated behaviour
  • Refusing food or treats while alone

7 ways to help

  1. Rule out health problems

    Health problems can cause or worsen these signs. See your vet if you're worried.

  2. Watch what happens

    Use a camera to check for signs of distress while you're out.

  3. Leave a long-lasting toy

    Give a stuffed food toy or chew only when you leave. Check they enjoy it when you're home first. If they ignore it when you're gone, they may be worried.

  4. Walk before you go

    Exercise them and give them a chance to go to the toilet before you leave.

  5. Let them settle

    Get back from the walk about half an hour before you leave, and make sure they're not hungry.

  6. Cut out disturbances

    Close the curtains, use a quiet room and put the radio on to muffle noise outside.

  7. Limit time alone

    The RSPCA advises not leaving adult dogs alone for more than 4 hours, and puppies for much less. A dog sitter or walker can help.

What not to do

  • Don't punish or tell your dog off. They won't link it to what happened earlier, and it makes the next time you leave worse
  • Don't mistake fear for guilt. A lowered head and tucked tail usually mean fear
  • Don't leave them to cry it out
  • If you come home to a mess, let your dog outside before you clean up

When to get expert help

If the signs continue, ask your vet to refer you to a clinical animal behaviourist, who can find the cause and make a plan for your dog.

Some dogs try to escape when they're left. Dogs Trust lists this as one of the reasons dogs run away, so check doors, windows and the garden too.

Keeping your dog safe if they get lost

In public, your dog must wear a collar and tag with your name and address. A PawTrak QR plate on the same collar gives whoever finds your dog a quick way to reach you.

  • Any phone camera reads it. No app needed.
  • The finder can message you and share their location.
  • Free profile with every collar.

Shop collars · See what a finder sees

Sources

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