How do I know if my dog has separation anxiety?

Recognising separation anxiety in dogs can sometimes be tricky, as some of the symptoms can look like normal behaviour (like barking or whining). However, dogs with true separation anxiety will often display a specific set of behaviours when left alone or separated from their owners, and these behaviours are more intense or extreme than the usual “I miss you” reaction. Here are some common signs to look for:

1. Excessive VocaliSation

• Barking or Whining: Dogs with separation anxiety often bark, whine, or howl excessively when left alone. This can be louder and more persistent than usual vocalisations, and it tends to continue for a long period (not just a few minutes).

• Crying or Whimpering: They may cry or whimper when you start preparing to leave (picking up keys, getting your shoes, etc.), which can be a sign they’re anticipating being left alone.

2. Destructive BehavioUr

• Chewing and Digging: Dogs with separation anxiety might chew on furniture, doors, windowsills, or shoes, or they may dig at the door or even try to escape the house. This is usually a way to cope with the stress of being alone.

• Damage to the Home: Destructive behaviour might include ripping up pillows, shredding curtains, or breaking things. This is often a result of panic and anxiety, not just boredom.

3. Inappropriate Elimination

• Urination and Defecation: Even if your dog is house-trained, they might urinate or defecate inside when you leave the house. This can happen due to stress and the anxiety they feel from your absence. The accidents typically happen when they’re left alone, not while you're around.

4. Excessive Following

• Clinginess: Dogs with separation anxiety may follow you around constantly when you're home, having a hard time being out of your sight. They may become very anxious or distressed if you're in a different room, or if you leave their immediate vicinity for even short periods.

5. Desperation to Escape

• Attempted Escape: Some dogs with separation anxiety will try to escape from a room or even their crate. This might involve scratching or biting at doors or windows, which could cause injuries. They may also damage their crate if they’re confined when you leave.

• Frenzied Behaviour: They may show signs of agitation like pacing back and forth, drooling, or frantically searching the room for you.

6. Overexcitement When You Return

• Hyperactive Greetings: Dogs with separation anxiety might display excessive excitement when you return home. This can look like frantic jumping, spinning in circles, or excessive licking. It’s often more extreme than just a happy greeting.

• Overwhelming Relief: They may also immediately try to cling to you or act as if they are overwhelmed with relief that you’re back.

7. Pacing or Restlessness

• Pacing: Some dogs may walk around in circles or constantly pace, especially when you’re getting ready to leave. This is often a sign of anxiety and distress, and they may keep pacing until you return or until the anxiety subsides.

• Excessive Salivation or Panting: These can be signs of stress or anxiety. If your dog starts salivating heavily or panting, even when they haven’t been physically active, this might indicate anxiety.

8. Loss of Appetite

• Not Eating: Some dogs with severe separation anxiety may refuse to eat while you’re gone, or even before you leave. They may be too stressed to eat, which can lead to noticeable weight loss over time.

9. BehavioUr When You Leave the House

• Anticipatory Anxiety: If your dog starts showing signs of distress when you prepare to leave (e.g., picking up your keys, putting on your shoes, or getting your bag), this is a red flag. They may start acting anxious or nervous even before you’ve left.

• Hyper-alert Behaviour: They may be constantly watching you, trying to anticipate when you’ll leave, or acting restless and unsettled in the minutes leading up to your departure.

How to Differentiate Separation Anxiety from Other Issues

It’s important to note that some of these behaviours can also stem from other causes, such as:

• Boredom: Destructive behaviour or vocalisation could simply be a sign of a lack of exercise or stimulation.

• Medical Issues: Some physical health problems (like urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal issues) can cause accidents in the house. So if your dog suddenly starts having accidents when they never used to, it’s worth having them checked out by a vet.

• Lack of Training: In some cases, dogs might act out when left alone due to insufficient training or not being used to being alone.

The key difference with separation anxiety is the intensity and timing of these behaviours—dogs with separation anxiety will typically show these symptoms specifically when you leave or when they anticipate you leaving.

What to Do if You Suspect Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety

If you notice these signs and suspect your dog has separation anxiety, the first step is to rule out medical issues by visiting a vet. After that, here are some steps to consider:

1. Gradual Desensitisation:

   • Start leaving your dog alone for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration. Make these departures low-key (don’t make a big fuss when you leave or return) to avoid building anticipation.

2. Create a Safe Space:

   • Set up a comfortable, safe area for your dog while you’re gone (e.g., a crate or a room with their bed, toys, and water). This space should feel secure and comforting.

3. Provide Mental Stimulation:

   • Use puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or long-lasting chews to keep your dog occupied while you’re away. This can help reduce their anxiety by providing them with something to focus on.

4. Exercise Before You Leave:

   • Take your dog for a long walk or engage in active play before you leave. A tired dog is less likely to have anxiety-driven behaviour.

5. Consult a Behaviourist:

   • If your dog’s anxiety is severe, a tertiary qualified animal behaviourist can help. They can assess your dog’s behaviour, design and guide you through structured behaviour modification programs and may recommend specific exercises for your dog’s anxiety. Padfoot is the leading applied animal behaviour practice on the Sunshine Coast. You can book an initial consultation with our qualified animal behaviourist using our online booking system.

6. Consider Medication:

   • In some cases, medications can help alleviate severe anxiety symptoms. These should be used in conjunction with behaviour modification techniques recommended by your behaviourist who can also advise if this is a useful course of action for your individual circumstances.

Conclusion

Separation anxiety can be difficult for both the dog and the owner, but with patience and consistency, most dogs can improve. If you’re seeing multiple signs of separation anxiety, it’s important to address it sooner rather than later to avoid long-term behavioural issues.

From group training classes to problem canine behaviour solutions, walk, play and trains to private appointments, and snake avoidance courses to canine myofunctional therapy sessions, Padfoot is the Sunshine Coast’s most trusted applied animal behaviour practice. We’re the team your dog would choose. And we look forward to meeting them soon!

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