Dog separation anxiety

As sociable pack animals, dogs can feel very anxious when we are no longer spending as much time with them.

Separation anxiety can cause dogs to bark when they are alone, and we are at work or school. They may also display other negative behaviours when left at home alone.

Simple tips that can help:

Start small and increase

Give your dog time away from the family at increasing intervals. Go out for 15 minutes once a day and then increase the time and frequency slowly.

Create some separation when you’re together

When you’re at home together, put your dog into another room with the door open each day for some quiet time. Make the room comfortable and give them something to play with to make it a positive experience.

If your dog struggles with being in a separate room from you, try a baby gate or barrier of some sort in the doorway, so that they can still see and hear you but can’t access you. Use a crate if your puppy or dog is used to being crated.

Outside time for outdoor pups

If your dog is left alone outside, make sure they spend time alone outside each day while you are at home and give them something to do to help create a positive experience.

Build up the time that your puppy or dog is left alone. Provide entertainment such as chew bones and treat balls - these are great for puppies. If the dog is indoors, leaving the television or radio on can be a comfort.

Talk to your neighbours

Give your neighbours a heads up and keep in touch with them to see if they have heard any excessive barking. Some dogs will bark even if they aren’t distressed, especially if they can see the outside world and people passing by.

For more advice contact our Customer Service team on 0800 926 732 and ask to speak to an Animal Services team member to get some help.