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Separation anxiety in dogs

Published on 17 June 2026 | Themes covered:anxiety , behaviour , dog

Does your dog panic when you leave the house? Do you come home to chewed furniture, constant barking or other signs of stress? If so, your dog might be suffering from separation anxiety.

 

This is a common issue where dogs become uneasy when left alone. Luckily, there are ways to calm your best friend, including using natural supplements like Lactium®—a gentle ingredient derived from milk protein that encourages relaxation.

 

This article reviews the cause, symptoms and how to stop separation anxiety in dogs.

What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs?

 

There are times when you may need to leave your dog at home. Not only do they watch you with doleful eyes as you shut the front door, but you probably feel guilty too.

 

Separation anxiety in dogs can show in different ways:

  • Excessive barking, whining, or howling – this should be discouraged, not just for your pet’s sake, but because neighbors are likely to complain.
  • Chewing furniture, scratching doors or other destructive behavior (they check for your return at door, window or gate, or destroy to take out stress).
  • Trying to escape the house.
  • Accidents indoors, even if your dog is house-trained.

How to stop dog separation anxiety barking?

 

Constant barking is one of the most challenging parts of separation anxiety. To tackle this:

  • Keep your dog mentally stimulated with toys or activities.
  • Use soft music to mask outside sounds.
  • Train your dog to associate your leaving with something positive, like a special treat or toy
  • Don’t make a fuss when leaving or coming back home. Stay neutral as if this was a non-event.

How do you know if your dog has separation anxiety?

 

If this behavior only happens when you’re leaving or not at home, it’s a strong sign that your dog has separation anxiety.

 

They may also start to pace or become stressed the moment you put on your shoes.

Don´t make a fuss or return to say goodbye. Say it once and leave, or use a word such as ‘stay’ that they’ll understand.

 

You may not be aware your dog is suffering from anxiety until you get home and find a trail of destruction. To monitor your pet’s behavior when you’re away from home you could install a camera.

GOOD TO KNOW

Some camera systems allow you to speak to your dog when away from the house. However, hearing your voice without you being there could increase the stress.

Why do dogs develop separation anxiety?

 

Your dog is likely used to you being around and making a fuss of them. If you’re suddenly not there they can feel stressed. Other reasons for separation anxiety in dogs include:

 

  • Rescue dog separation anxiety – if your dog was adopted, they may have been abandoned before and fear it will happen again.
  • Dog separation anxiety at night – some dogs feel uneasy being separated from their humans, even while everyone sleeps.
  • Separation anxiety in older dogs – as dogs age, they can get more anxious due to changes in their routine or cognitive decline.
  • Dogs with separation anxiety breeds – certain breeds, like German Shepherds or Labradors, are naturally more attached to their owners.

 

How to help a dog with separation anxiety?

 

Helping your dog feel comfortable when alone takes time. These tips for separation anxiety in dogs can make a difference:

 

Train for alone time

 

Get your dog used to short periods of separation and slowly increase the time. Stay low-key when you leave to avoid building up their excitement.

 

Keep them busy

 

Leave toys or long-lasting chews to keep your dog entertained. And remember – a tired dog is a calmer dog! Ensure they get plenty of daily exercise.

 

Use a calming supplement like Lactium®

 

Lactium® is a natural ingredient derived from milk protein. It has a calming effect on dogs without making them drowsy. Giving your dog Lactium® can help reduce their anxiety and relax them when you’re away.

 

Create a calm environment

 

Leave a piece of clothing with your scent to comfort your dog. You could also leave the radio or TV on to keep them company.

Can another dog help with separation anxiety?

 

If your dog gets on well with others adding another pet to your family could distract them. Some people also ask ‘Can a cat help with separation anxiety’? This depends on whether your dog is comfortable around cats.

GOOD TO KNOW

If you’re looking for a dog less prone to this issue, consider dog breeds with low separation anxiety, like a Greyhound or a Pug

Curing dog separation anxiety quickly

 

If you need a fast solution, try combining several approaches:

  • A calming supplement like Lactium® can ease your dog’s stress.
  • Stick to a routine so your dog knows what to expect.
  • Keep them busy with exercise and mental stimulation.

 

To find out more about how Lactium® can help your dog with separation anxiety contact us.

 

Sources
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/separationrelatedbehaviour
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/understanding-your-dog/separation-anxiety-in-dogs
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/understanding-your-dog/separation-anxiety-in-dogs
https://www.rd.com/list/dogs-that-can-be-left-alone/

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