'The Psychology of Separation Anxiety in Dogs'

Introduction: Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Causes, Signs, and Solutions

“Separation Anxiety” in dogs is a common but often misunderstood issue. It’s a stress-related disorder triggered when a dog is left alone or separated from someone they’ve bonded closely with—whether that’s you, a family member, or even another dog in the household.

If your dog starts barking incessantly as soon as you walk out the door or chews up the sofa while you’re out, they might be suffering from separation anxiety. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the causes, common signs, and practical solutions to help ease your dog’s anxiety and teach them to feel calm when left alone.

Need more help? At Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School in Brisbane, we specialise in dealing with separation anxiety and other behavioural problems. If you’re not in the area, no worries—we also offer online consultations, so help is only a click away!

Common Causes of, or triggers for Separation Anxiety in Dogs:

Separation anxiety typically develops over time due to changes in a dog’s environment or lifestyle. While genetics may play a role, it’s often the routines and habits of owners that contribute to the issue. Below are some of the most common triggers that can lead to separation anxiety in dogs:It is not a complete list.

1. Lifestyle Changes

Dogs thrive on routine, so any sudden disruption such as moving to a new home, introducing a new family member, or a change in the owner’s work schedule can trigger anxiety. A notable example occurred during the pandemic when dogs who were used to having their owners at home all day struggled when those same owners returned to work, leading to heightened anxiety during periods of separation. Unfortunately this has led to a significant number of dogs being rehomed.

2. Owners Who Work from Home or Are Retired

While it’s wonderful to spend a lot of time with your dog, constant presence can create over-reliance. Dogs with owners who work from home, are retired, or stay at home full-time may rarely experience being left alone. As a result, when separation may finally occur, whether for a few hours or a longer period, they may struggle to cope.

Training Tip: If you’re at home most of the day, try to build in small, manageable periods of separation throughout your daily routine - Start with 30 seconds and increase the time slowly. Increase by 30 seconds a day so over a period of 2 - 4 weeks your dog should be on the way to being happy and relaxed and should "help your dog adjust to being on their own". Peter also suggests the practice of PLACE training "Use a mat on the floor on the lounge or where suits you and your dog. Put the mat down and train the dog to lay on the mat. This is a safe place for them and you can take the mate with you. The dog can then go anywhere as they are care free and safe.

3. Rescue and Re-homed Dogs

Rescue dogs are particularly susceptible to separation anxiety. Many have experienced abandonment or have lived in multiple homes before finding a permanent family. Due to this past instability, they may associate being left alone with being abandoned again, leading to severe anxiety when separated from their new owner.Need help with a rescue dog? Our experienced dog trainers specialise in helping rescue dogs overcome anxiety and build confidence. Book a consultation today!

4. Kennelling and Boarding

Dogs that aren’t accustomed to staying with strangers may feel distressed when placed in boarding kennels or left with a pet sitter while their owner is away. Even after returning home, this experience can create lasting anxiety and lead to clingy or nervous behaviour in the future.Tip: Before kennelling your dog for an extended period, consider shorter trial stays or use doggy daycare services to help them get used to being in new environments.

Peters Quick Tip: Whether you’re raising a puppy or an older dog, it’s crucial to practise short periods of separation regularly to help build their confidence. If you’re unsure how to start, consider enrolling in one of our puppy training courses to establish healthy habits early on.

5. Over-Stimulation in Puppies

Puppies who are overstimulated from the moment they are brought home—constantly surrounded by people, noise, or attention—may develop long-term anxiety issues. Without adequate time to rest and learn to be alone, these puppies can become overly dependent on human presence, leading to separation anxiety that persists into adulthood.

It’s essential to provide your puppy with a designated safe space, such as a crate, playpen, or a specific room like the laundry, where they can retreat and relax. Equally important is ensuring they spend regular, short periods alone.

Training Tip: Teach your puppy early on that being alone is not a problem but a positive experience. This simple routine builds confidence, promotes healthy psychological development, and can prevent anxiety-related behaviours later in life. Remember, a confident puppy grows into a well-adjusted adult dog!

It’s essential to provide your puppy with a designated safe space, such as a crate, playpen, or a specific room like the laundry, where they can retreat and relax. Equally important is ensuring they spend regular, short periods alone.

Training Tip: Teach your puppy early on that being alone is not a problem but a positive experience. This simple routine builds confidence, promotes healthy psychological development, and can prevent anxiety-related behaviours later in life. Remember, a confident puppy grows into a well-adjusted adult dog!

The Role of Canine Psychology: What is Object Permanence?

Ever noticed that when you leave the room, your dog stays calm for a while but suddenly starts whining after a few minutes? Even when your just going to the bathroom. This reaction stems from their limited understanding of object permanence—the concept that something continues to exist even when it’s out of sight. I can’t see you mum so you must have left.

Studies show that dogs can track objects for a short time, but when those objects (or in this case, people) are completely out of their sensory range, anxiety may set in. Dogs don’t fully grasp where you’ve gone or when (or if) you’ll return, which leads to stress.

Peter’s Training Tip: Gradually increasing the time your dog spends alone which may help them develop the confidence they need. Start with very short intervals—just a few minutes—and slowly extend them over time. Start when the puppy is young. Jean Piaget's work in child psychology taught us about cognitive development in children. Lucky for us, some of what he learned can be directly applied to canine psychology. Specifically, the studies conducted on "Object Permanence".

Understanding Object Permanence and How It Relates to Separation Anxiety

Have you ever noticed how your dog seems calm when you leave the room but becomes anxious after a few minutes? This behaviour can be explained by a psychological concept known as object permanence.

The Role of Canine Psychology: What is Object Permanence?

Understanding and appreciating that dogs can be child like - reading ‘Jean Piaget’s’ work in child psychology revealed that infants develop the ability to understand object permanence—the concept that things continue to exist even when out of sight—at around 1-2 years old. Interestingly, dogs exhibit a similar level of understanding.

Studies such as the one by Thomas R. Zentall and Kristina F. Pattison in their 2016 article, “Now You See It, Now You Don’t: Object Permanence in Dogs,” demonstrate that while dogs can track objects for short periods after they disappear, they don’t fully comprehend where those objects go once they are out of sight. This limited understanding can contribute to separation anxiety, as dogs may not realise that their owner will eventually return.

When you leave the house, your dog doesn’t know if or when you’ll be back. This uncertainty triggers stress, leading to behaviours like barking, chewing, and pacing.

Peter’s Quick Training Tip:

Start early! To prevent separation anxiety, begin teaching your dog to be comfortable alone while they’re still a puppy. Start with very short periods—just a few minutes—and gradually increase the time. Use positive reinforcement by rewarding calm behaviour when you return. Over time, your dog will build confidence and learn that being alone isn’t scary.

How to Help a Dog with Separation Anxiety

The good news is that separation anxiety can be managed and, in many cases, significantly reduced. Here are some proven strategies.

1. Gradual Desensitisation

The goal here is to reduce your dog’s emotional reaction to your departure by slowly getting them used to being alone.

• Step 1: Start by leaving for just a few seconds and gradually increase the time as discussed earlier.

• Step 2: Don’t make a big fuss when you leave or return. Stay calm to show your dog that leaving is no big deal. Remember this begins the day you pick up your puppy.

• Step 3: Reward calm behaviour with treats or calm affection.

2. Create a Safe Space

Provide a comfortable, secure area for your dog while you’re away. This could be a crate (if they’re crate-trained) or a designated room with their favourite toys, a comfy bed, and an item of your clothing for comfort.

3. Mental Stimulation

Boredom can worsen anxiety, so keep your dog mentally engaged with puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or interactive games before you leave. A tired mind is less likely to stress.

4. Hire a Dog Trainer or Behaviourist

If the anxiety is evident then consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. They can help tailor a specific plan to your dog’s needs. You can certainly book some private training with Bonnies or a course if your in Brisbane, Australia.

5. Consider Doggy Daycare or a Dog Walker

If your schedule means you’re away for long periods, a doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker can help break up the day and reduce your dog’s anxiety.

6. Always talk to your Veterinarian

They are there for YOU and your “Best Mate’ and may be able to offer some great medical advice too.

Need More Help?

Separation anxiety can be a tricky issue, and while these tips are a great place to start, every dog is unique. If you’re unsure where to begin or want more personalised advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Whether you're local and looking to book one of our in-person training sessions or live further away and would prefer an online consultation, we’re here to help.

👉 Book a session today or contact us for more information.

Suggested Reading

If you found this article helpful, you may also want to read:

1. "Should I Get 2 Puppies from the Same Litter?" – Learn about littermate syndrome, its impact on your puppies’ behaviour, and how to prevent over-dependence.

2. "Puppies – Bonding and Health" – This article covers the importance of bonding with your puppy individually, building confidence, and fostering healthy development.

3. "Essential Tips for Raising a Well-Behaved Puppy" – Packed with actionable tips on socialisation, training, and creating a structured environment to help your puppy thrive.

These articles will give you deeper insight into raising a confident, well-adjusted dog, whether you're dealing with a single puppy or multiple pups!Conclusion

Separation anxiety in dogs is a common issue but with the right approach, it can be managed. By understanding your dog’s psychology, recognising the signs, and implementing effective training strategies, you can help your dog become more confident and independent.

Remember, every dog is different. Be patient, consistent, and, most importantly, loving. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to a professional dog trainer for guidance. At Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, we offer personalised training programs, online consultations, and group classes to help you and your furry friend live your best life together. Written by: Christian Bonney - Bonnies Trainer Thanks to those involved in the following references:

Psychology Today

Journals

Dog Psychology

Separation Anxiety in DOGS is REAL