Common signs

Separation anxiety often manifests rather dramatically. Your neighbours may complain about barking when you’re away from home, or you may get home to find a mess.

This is the one that bothers the neighbours! An anxious dog may bark or even howl – sometimes for a long time.

Dogs suffering from separation anxiety frequently destroy things when they’re left alone.

Extreme panic may make even the most housetrained dog eliminate in the home.

Dogs suffering from separation anxiety are often very attached to their owners.

Some dogs will even try to dig or chew their way out, damaging doors or windows and may injure themselves in the process. Note that if your dog engages in destructive behaviour while you’re present, the behaviour isn’t caused by separation anxiety. These behaviours are signs of separation anxiety only if they happen exclusively when you are out.
Your dog can show signs of anxiety in many different ways. For instance, a dog suffering from separation anxiety may pace the entire day without being able to calm down. As a result of its worry, the dog may pant all the time when alone, even when it is not hot.
Some dogs express their anxiety in appearing worried or withdrawn and hiding. These behaviours might be found less disturbing by the people but are equally distressing for the dog.

What is separation anxiety

Triggers and causes

Treatment options