Separation anxiety: catching the early signs
Up to 20% of dogs show some form of separation anxiety. Distinguishing it from "just bored" is the first step — and matters because the treatment is different.
Signs of true separation anxiety
- Symptoms start within 15 minutes of you leaving (not hours).
- Destructive behaviour focused on exit points — doors, windows, your scent.
- Excessive drooling, panting, vocalising for the duration.
- Accidents in the same spot every time.
The gradual exposure plan
Start with 30-second absences, build to 30 minutes over 3–4 weeks. Pair leaving with a long-lasting chew (frozen Kong with kibble + plain yogurt works well). Never punish the destruction — punishment makes anxiety worse.
When to call a behaviourist
If your dog is self-harming (chewing through doors to the point of bloody paws), call an IAABC-certified behaviourist. Severe cases sometimes need anti-anxiety medication from a vet alongside training.
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