Separation Anxiety in Dogs: First Steps
Separation anxiety in dogs is common after rehoming. With slow, consistent practice, most dogs can learn that being alone is safe and that departures are temporary.
Quick steps to reduce separation anxiety
- Start with tiny absences: step out for seconds, return calmly.
- Increase time in small increments; avoid sudden jumps.
- Provide comfort: your-scent blanket, safe chews, food puzzles.
- Keep exits and returns low-key — no big goodbyes.
Build a gradual training ladder
- Teach a relaxed settle on a mat while you move around the home.
- Practice door cues: handle → open/close → step out/in at calm levels.
- Progress from seconds out of sight to minutes, only while your dog remains relaxed.
Environment, routine and prevention
A predictable routine helps anxious dogs feel safer. Use white noise or a radio, close blinds if window-watching triggers barking, and ensure daily exercise and mental enrichment. Avoid leaving a dog to “cry it out” — this can worsen fear.
Separation anxiety can also show up as destructive chewing or excessive barking. Addressing anxiety early helps prevent these patterns becoming habits.
Get professional help early if:
there is howling, destruction, self-injury, or no improvement after a couple of weeks.
Speak to your vet and a qualified trainer or behaviourist
(IMDT / APDT trainers; ABTC / CCAB behaviourists).