Home-alone stress & separation anxiety

Some dogs find being left alone genuinely distressing. Signs can include barking, howling or whining when you leave, destructive behaviour (especially around doors and windows), toileting indoors, pacing, drooling or not eating while alone.

Important first steps

• Never punish your dog for what happened while you were out. They can’t connect it to the punishment, and it adds to their stress.
• Record your dog (a phone or pet camera) when you leave, so you can see what’s really going on.
• Speak to your vet. Medical issues can cause similar signs, and some dogs benefit from medication alongside training.
• Avoid leaving your dog for longer than they can currently cope with while you work on it. Dog sitters, daycare, friends or family can bridge the gap.

Gentle training basics

Separation-related problems usually improve by building up time alone in very small steps, always staying below the point where your dog becomes worried. That might start with just a few seconds behind a closed door. A qualified behaviourist can create a plan for your dog. Look for one on the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) registers.

A detailed, step-by-step guide is on the way.