An estimated 7 in 10 dogs experience some form of anxiety — and separation anxiety is the most common. The tricky part? Most of it happens when you're not home. Here's what to look for.
The 7 signs
- Pacing or circling as soon as you pick up your keys or put on shoes.
- Barking or howling that starts within minutes of you leaving (your neighbours will tell you).
- Destructive chewing — especially around doors and windows, the 'exit points.'
- Accidents indoors from a fully house-trained dog.
- Excessive drooling or panting when alone (check for a wet chin patch when you return).
- Refusing food until you're back home.
- Over-the-top greetings — frantic, can't-settle excitement rather than a happy hello.
What actually helps
Comfort objects that mimic company. Puppies especially respond to a heartbeat toy — the pulse mimics a littermate, which is why shelters and breeders use them for first nights home.
Licking enrichment. Licking releases endorphins, your dog's natural calming chemical. A lick mat smeared with peanut butter before you leave changes the association: keys = treat, not keys = panic.
Natural calming support. For dogs with stronger anxiety, calming chews with chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower take the edge off in 30–45 minutes — without sedation.
Practice short departures. Leave for 2 minutes, return calmly, repeat. Slowly build duration so your dog learns that leaving always ends with you coming back.
When to see a vet
If your dog injures themselves trying to escape, or the anxiety is getting worse despite consistent work, talk to your vet — severe cases sometimes need professional behavioural help.