Separation anxiety: a realistic rehab plan

Separation-related behaviour is one of the most distressing problems for owners and dogs alike. The first job is working out what you're actually dealing with.

Anxiety vs. boredom

True separation anxiety is panic — it starts within minutes of departure (often during your pre-leaving routine), and looks like frantic pacing, drooling, escape attempts, or non-stop vocalising. Boredom builds later and looks more like idle chewing or getting into the bin. They need different plans; a camera on your dog while you're out tells you which one it is.

The foundation

Rule out under-exercise and under-stimulation first — a dog with unmet needs will struggle with alone-time regardless. Provide real physical exercise and mental enrichment (sniffing, chews, food puzzles) daily.

Systematic desensitisation — the actual fix

You rebuild the dog's tolerance for absence in tiny, non-scary steps. Positive reinforcement and management do the heavy lifting here — punishment makes anxiety dramatically worse.

Step 1 Break the departure cues. Pick up your keys and sit back down. Put your shoes on and make a cup of tea. Do this until those cues stop predicting departure.

Step 2 Practise micro-absences — step outside, close the door, come back before the dog panics. Even 5 seconds. Slowly extend, always staying under threshold.

Step 3 Build a positive association with a settle spot and a long-lasting chew given only when you leave.

When to get help

If the dog is self-harming, escaping, or the panic is severe, involve a qualified behaviourist and your vet early — some cases benefit from short-term veterinary support alongside training. This is a marathon, not a weekend fix.