When Seperation is....Anxiety

Separation Anxiety (SA) is one of the most challenging behavioral challenges that impacts between 14-20% of dogs. This article will examine possible causes, signs/manifested behaviors and most importantly, successful training approaches. SA is universally distressing for owners, pups and the neighbors.

Prior to domestication, dogs were pack animals. They hunted, slept with and traveled as a pack. When SA is considered in relation to that history, It makes sense that a dog would feel a certain way when they’re left alone.

So…what are the causes separation anxiety? Why do 80% of dogs never exhibit symptoms?

Unfortunately, there is no single cause. Nor have any environmental factors conclusively been proven causal. Anecdotally, major changes in a dog’s life appear to correlate with the emergence of SA symptoms. Examples include:

· Death of family member (human or k-9)

· Lack of socialization as a puppy

· Change in residence

· A dramatic change in schedule where a dog is suddenly left alone for hours each day

Independent of cause, separation anxiety always manifests itself in manic, destructive and sometimes self-destructive behaviors.

1. Excessive barking and/or howling. After you leave, how long does it take for them to relax and stop? Have you had complaints from neighbors?

2. Destructive behavior – I had an Akita, Bailey that chewed through interior doors, a garage door, destroyed the interior of a Suburban, and ate a couch among her many other destructive tantrums.

3. Going to the bathroom indoors

4. Escape attempts – Bailey my Akita, had earned herself the title of “escape artist” at our kennel. She had a special care note on her file. We learned that she had become the special charge of the owner during her visits. He would be notified of her arrival and then he would collect her and she stayed with him during our trips. This not the norm – dogs like Bailey are typically banned from future stays. Needless to say, I was very loyal to the kennel for the rest of my time in that area.

5. Trembling, panting and drooling – often excessively. Many times, these can be triggered by cues that the parent is preparing to leave; the jingling of keys, putting on shoes and/or coat, etc.

6. Food left while you were away goes untouched.

While these behavioral symptoms are consistent with a separation anxiety diagnosis, it is important to rule out other potential causes such as various medications and/or conditions.

Overcoming separation anxiety can be daunting due to the slow progress filled with both progress and regress. The good news is that this isn’t a new problem and there are success stories/best practices available to study.

Critical success factors:

1. This isn’t a sprint. Progress comes in small increments and success is only possible with consistency on the parent’s part. Likely, different tactics will be layered. Each providing small incremental improvements

2. Stay positive and consistent. Your pup is in a state of distress, negative reinforcement will provide no benefit.

3. Dogs are smart and predictably food/treat motivated. In dealing with SA, stay away from any type of negative feedback.

Some tactics with broadly demonstrated success to consider:

· Many folks have seen a benefit from leaving a tv or radio on while you’re out. The sound of voices appears to reduce anxiety in many cases.

· Set-up an old phone or tablet as a continuous monitor while you are out. Free Apps such as Barkio or Alfredcamera allow your old device to serve as a pup monitor. Anyone in the family can check in during the day. This set-up also allows you to speak to our pup if it will soothe them.

· Consider having someone stop-in mid-day for an hour or two. Play, exercise and food set-up the afternoon nap nicely. hiring a dog walker to visit and play with your pup for some energy burn. If you’re planning to hire, please consider Substitute Pet Parents.

· To the extent possible, begin alone times ad short periods and slowly building to longer terms as your pup’s confidence grows.

· Give your pup a food challenge as you leave. A Kong filled with peanut butter can be a long-term project followed by a nap.

· Consider crate training along with food puzzle for alone time. Smaller spaces are shown to reduce anxiety levels.

· For any instances where you board your dog, consider home-boarding to reduce stress. About 70% of Pet Parents see a discernable positive difference in their pup’s mental health when home-boarded. If you choose home-boarding, we hope that you will consider Substitute Pet Parents when the need arises (Our services).

· Counter-conditioning: Add positive cues to redirect before leaving the house. An example could be that your pup gets 2 treats and you tuck him in bed after you’ve gathered your keys. In time, they will associate treats and belly rubs with your leaving.

· Desensitization & counter-conditioning: If a dog is struggling with severe separation anxiety that is triggered by specific routines, like putting your coat on or gathering your keys, desensitization may be of help. Here’s a link to a pretty helpful training approach from the Animal Humane Society.

· Lastly, you may consider employing either a specialized trainer or behaviorist for assistance.

If you’re trying to conquer SA with your pup – Stay positive, determined and consistent. Let us hear what’s worked for you…? If progress is eluding you, consider deeper consultation with your vet, trainer and possibly engage a behaviorist.

Substitute Pet Parents is a trained group of pet care professionals serving pets & pet parents in Pittsburgh’s South Hills. SPP offers pet sitting (days/nights), walks, park visits, feeding, meds, Doggy Uber etc. We would love the opportunity to care for your pets when you have the need for a substitute. Substitutepetparents.com

Sources:

“Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Tips & Tricks from a Trainer”; The Honest Kitchen; Tonya Willhelm

“Separation Anxiety for Dogs, A Complete Guide”; A Fluffy Affair 1/15/2026; Snehe Tete

“The Best Remedy for Separation Anxiety : A Step by Step Guide”; Michelson Found Animals

“Separation Anxiety in Dogs”; RSPCA – Orion Pharma Animal Health

info@substitutepetparents.com

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