Dog Separation Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes & Natural Solutions

Does your dog turn into a destructive force of nature the moment you leave the house? If you're dealing with chewed furniture, excessive barking, or house soiling when you're away, your furry friend might be suffering from separation anxiety. This comprehensive guide will help you understand, identify, and naturally treat this common behavioral issue that affects millions of dogs worldwide.

What Is Dog Separation Anxiety and Why Should You Care?

Dog separation anxiety is a behavioral condition where dogs experience extreme distress when separated from their owners or primary caregivers. Unlike simple boredom or misbehavior, separation anxiety is a genuine panic disorder that can severely impact both your dog's well-being and your quality of life.

The statistics are staggering: According to veterinary behaviorists, separation anxiety affects approximately 14% of all dogs, with rescue dogs showing even higher rates at nearly 20%. This condition isn't just about a few chewed shoes – it's a serious mental health issue that can lead to self-injury, property damage, and in severe cases, dogs being surrendered to shelters.

Understanding separation anxiety is crucial because untreated cases often worsen over time. Dogs don't simply "grow out of it," and punishment-based approaches typically make the problem worse. The good news? With proper identification and natural treatment methods, most dogs can learn to feel comfortable and secure when left alone.

Key takeaway: Separation anxiety is a treatable condition, not a character flaw or sign of a "bad dog."

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety? (Recognizing the Warning Signs)

Are you wondering whether your dog's behavior when you leave is normal or cause for concern? Identifying separation anxiety early is crucial for effective treatment. Here are the telltale signs to watch for:

Primary Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

Destructive Behavior:

• Chewing furniture, doors, or window frames (especially near exit points)
• Scratching or digging at doors and windows
• Destroying items that smell like you (clothing, shoes, pillows)
• Damage that occurs only when you're away, not when you're home

Excessive Vocalization:

• Persistent barking, howling, or whining
• Vocal distress that begins shortly after you leave
• Neighbors reporting noise complaints
• Vocalizations that don't respond to typical triggers (like other dogs or visitors)

House Soiling:

• Urinating or defecating indoors despite being house-trained
• Accidents that happen only during your absence
• Elimination near doors or windows (escape routes)
• No accidents when you're home

Escape Attempts:

• Scratching at doors or windows
• Attempting to jump over fences or barriers
• Self-injury from trying to escape (broken nails, worn paw pads)
• Successfully escaping and trying to find you

Secondary Symptoms to Monitor

Physical Signs:

• Excessive drooling or panting when you prepare to leave
• Trembling or shaking
• Loss of appetite when alone
• Lethargy upon your return

Behavioral Changes:

• Following you obsessively (velcro dog behavior)
• Becoming distressed when you pick up keys or put on shoes
• Difficulty settling down when you're home
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Important distinction: True separation anxiety symptoms occur consistently when the dog is left alone and don't happen when the owner is present. If your dog is destructive or vocal when you're home, other behavioral issues might be at play.

Using Technology to Confirm Diagnosis

Modern pet cameras and monitoring systems can help you determine if you're dealing with separation anxiety or other behavioral issues. Look for:

• When the problematic behavior begins (immediately after you leave vs. hours later)
• Duration and intensity of distress signals
• Whether your dog settles down or remains agitated throughout your absence

Learn more about Understanding Dog Body Language to better interpret your pet's stress signals

What Triggers Separation Anxiety in Dogs? (Understanding the Root Causes)

Ever wondered why some dogs develop separation anxiety while others seem perfectly content alone? Understanding the underlying causes can help you prevent this condition in puppies and address it more effectively in adult dogs.

Primary Risk Factors

Early Life Experiences:

• Premature weaning (separated from mother before 8 weeks)
• Lack of proper socialization during critical periods (3-14 weeks)
• Traumatic experiences when left alone (thunderstorms, break-ins, loud noises)
• Multiple rehoming situations or shelter experiences

Genetics and Breed Predisposition: Some breeds show higher rates of separation anxiety, including:

• German Shepherds and other herding breeds
• Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers
• Border Collies and Australian Shepherds
• Toy breeds (Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers)
• Rescue dogs and mixed breeds with unknown histories

Major Life Changes:

• Moving to a new home
• Changes in family structure (divorce, new baby, family member leaving)
• Loss of another pet or family member
• Sudden changes in routine or schedule
• Owner's return to work after extended time at home (post-pandemic trend)

Environmental Triggers

Routine Dependencies:

• Dogs who've never learned to be alone
• Over-attachment to one family member
• Lack of mental stimulation leading to boredom-induced anxiety
• Absence of a safe, comfortable space

Medical Factors:

• Age-related cognitive decline in senior dogs
• Underlying health issues causing discomfort
• Medication side effects
• Hormonal imbalances

The COVID-19 Connection

Important note for modern dog owners: The pandemic created a unique situation where many dogs spent months with their owners at home 24/7. As life returned to normal and people went back to offices, veterinarians reported a significant spike in separation anxiety cases. This "pandemic puppy" phenomenon affected dogs of all ages who had become accustomed to constant human companionship.

Prevention tip for puppies: Even if you work from home, practice short separations daily to help your puppy develop independence and confidence.

Can You Prevent Separation Anxiety in Puppies? (Early Intervention Strategies)

The best treatment for separation anxiety is prevention. If you have a puppy or are considering getting a dog, these proactive strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing separation anxiety.

Building Independence from Day One

Gradual Alone Time Training: Start with very short absences (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase duration:

• Week 1: 5-15 minute departures
• Week 2: 15-30 minute departures
• Week 3: 30-60 minute departures
• Week 4+: Gradually increase to several hours

Creating Positive Alone Associations:

• Provide special toys or treats only when leaving
• Use puzzle feeders to keep puppies occupied
• Play calming music or white noise
• Ensure comfortable temperature and lighting

Socialization and Confidence Building

Diverse Experiences:

• Expose puppies to various people, places, and situations
• Practice brief separations from different family members
• Encourage independent play and exploration
• Avoid reinforcing clingy behavior

Safe Space Creation:

• Establish a comfortable crate or designated area
• Make the space positive with favorite toys and blankets
• Never use the space for punishment
• Practice crate training when you're home first

Discover more about Socializing Your Puppy or Adult Dog with our step-by-step guide

Common Prevention Mistakes to Avoid

Over-attention when home:

• Constantly petting or talking to your puppy
• Allowing the puppy to follow you everywhere
• Responding to every demand for attention
• Making your departures and arrivals overly emotional

Inconsistent routines:

• Irregular feeding and exercise schedules
• Unpredictable departure times
• Different family members following different rules
• Lack of structure in daily activities

How Long Does It Take to Treat Separation Anxiety? (Setting Realistic Expectations)

One of the most common questions from dog owners is: "How quickly will I see improvement?" The honest answer is that treating separation anxiety requires patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.

Timeline for Improvement

Mild Cases (Recent onset, minimal destruction):

• Initial improvements: 2-4 weeks
• Significant progress: 6-8 weeks
• Full resolution: 3-6 months

Moderate Cases (Established patterns, some property damage):

• Initial improvements: 4-6 weeks
• Significant progress: 2-4 months
• Full resolution: 6-12 months

Severe Cases (Self-injury, extreme destruction, long-standing issues):

• Initial improvements: 6-8 weeks
• Significant progress: 4-8 months
• Full resolution: 1-2 years or more

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Dog-specific factors:

• Age (puppies typically respond faster than senior dogs)
• Temperament and resilience
• Severity and duration of symptoms
• Overall health and stress levels

Owner factors:

• Consistency in training approach
• Time available for training sessions
• Family cooperation and support
• Ability to manage their own stress and emotions

Environmental factors:

• Stability of daily routine
• Home environment stressors
• Support from neighbors (if noise is an issue)
• Access to professional help when needed

Measuring Progress

Early signs of improvement:

• Decreased intensity of symptoms (quieter whining vs. loud howling)
• Shorter duration of distress when you leave
• Faster settling after your departure
• Less destruction or more appropriate outlets for anxiety

Long-term progress indicators:

• Calm behavior during departure preparations
• Comfortable resting when alone
• Normal appetite and elimination patterns
• Relaxed greeting upon your return (not frantic)

Important reminder: Progress isn't always linear. You may see improvements followed by temporary setbacks, especially during stressful periods or routine changes.

What Are the Most Effective Natural Remedies for Dog Separation Anxiety?

Before turning to prescription medications, many dog owners successfully manage separation anxiety using natural approaches. These methods can be used alone for mild cases or in combination with behavioral modification for more severe situations.

Herbal and Supplemental Solutions

Calming Supplements:

L-Theanine and L-Tryptophan:

• Amino acids that promote relaxation without sedation
• Dosage: 100-200mg per 25 pounds of body weight (consult your vet)
• Available in treats, capsules, or powder form
• Safe for long-term use with minimal side effects

Valerian Root:

• Natural sedative with calming properties
• Best used 30-60 minutes before expected stressful events
• Can cause drowsiness in some dogs
• Not recommended for pregnant or nursing dogs

Chamomile:

• Gentle calming herb suitable for sensitive dogs
• Available as tea (cooled), capsules, or in commercial calming products
• Often combined with other calming ingredients
• Generally safe with few contraindications

CBD Oil for Dogs:

• Pet-safe, THC-free cannabidiol products
• Helps regulate anxiety and stress responses
• Start with low doses and gradually increase
• Choose high-quality, third-party tested products
• Consult your veterinarian before starting

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Safe Essential Oils for Dogs:

Lavender:

• Most researched calming scent for dogs
• Contains linalool, which interacts with brain chemistry
• Use in diffusers (well-ventilated areas) or diluted topical applications
• Particularly effective for separation anxiety

Chamomile:

• Gentle, soothing aroma
• Safe for sensitive or elderly dogs
• Can be combined with lavender for enhanced effects
• Available in spray or diffuser forms

Safety Guidelines for Essential Oils:

• Always dilute before use (1-2 drops per ounce of carrier oil)
• Never apply undiluted oils directly to skin
• Ensure good ventilation when using diffusers
• Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions
• Avoid oils around the face and muzzle area

Bach Flower Remedies

Rescue Remedy:

• Most popular Bach flower essence for anxiety
• Combination of five flower essences
• Safe, non-toxic, and easy to administer
• Can be added to water bowl or given directly

Specific Flower Essences:

• Honeysuckle for dogs who seem homesick
• Mimulus for fears and anxieties
• Red Chestnut for over-concern about others
• Aspen for unknown fears and apprehensions

Explore more Natural Calming Aids for Anxious Dogs in our comprehensive guide

Music and Sound Therapy

Calming Music for Dogs:

• Classical music, particularly slower tempos (50-60 BPM)
• Species-specific music designed for canine hearing
• Nature sounds like gentle rain or ocean waves
• Consistent background noise to mask triggering sounds

White Noise and Sound Masking:

• Helps cover departure sounds (keys, car starting)
• Reduces anxiety-inducing external noises
• Creates consistent audio environment
• Available through apps, machines, or TV programs

Creating a Calm Physical Environment

Temperature and Lighting:

• Maintain comfortable temperature (68-72°F)
• Natural lighting or soft artificial lights
• Avoid complete darkness which can increase anxiety
• Consider timer-controlled lights for longer absences

Comfort Items:

• Clothing with your scent
• Favorite blankets or bedding
• Special toys reserved for alone time
• Puzzle feeders for mental stimulation

Space Design:

• Access to windows for visual stimulation (if not triggering)
• Safe, enclosed area that feels secure
• Remove or protect valuable/dangerous items
• Provide multiple comfort zones throughout permitted areas

How Can Behavioral Training Help Your Anxious Dog? (Evidence-Based Approaches)

While natural remedies can provide relief, behavioral modification forms the foundation of successful separation anxiety treatment. These training techniques address the root cause of anxiety rather than just managing symptoms.

Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning

Gradual Exposure Therapy: The gold standard for treating separation anxiety involves slowly teaching your dog that being alone is safe and even pleasant.

Step-by-step process:

1. Departure cue desensitization: Practice picking up keys, putting on shoes, or grabbing your bag without actually leaving
2. Mock departures: Go through your leaving routine but don't leave the house
3. Brief absences: Step outside for 10-30 seconds, then gradually increase
4. Room separation: Practice leaving your dog in one room while you're in another
5. Extended absences: Slowly build up to several hours away

Counter-conditioning techniques:

• Pair departure cues with positive experiences (treats, favorite activities)
• Create positive associations with alone time through special toys or food puzzles
• Use high-value rewards that only appear when you're leaving
• Practice calm, matter-of-fact departures and arrivals

Independence Training

Reducing Velcro Dog Behavior: Many dogs with separation anxiety become overly dependent on their owners' presence.

Training exercises:

• Place command: Teaching your dog to stay in a designated spot while you move around
• Boundary training: Using baby gates to create physical separation while maintaining visual contact
• Independent activities: Encouraging play and exploration without your involvement
• Settle training: Teaching calm, relaxed behavior even when you're present

Building Confidence:

• Reward independent choices and calm behavior
• Avoid reinforcing attention-seeking behaviors
• Encourage exploration and problem-solving
• Provide mental challenges through puzzle toys and training

Learn effective Positive Reinforcement Dog Training methods that build confidence

Routine Modification

Changing Departure Patterns: Predictable routines can trigger anticipatory anxiety. Mix up your departure signals:

• Vary the order of your leaving routine
• Practice departure cues at random times
• Leave through different doors when possible
• Change the timing of exercise and feeding relative to departures

Arrival Protocol: How you return home significantly impacts your dog's anxiety levels:

• Ignore excited greetings for the first 5-10 minutes
• Wait for calm behavior before providing attention
• Keep arrivals low-key and matter-of-fact
• Establish a consistent post-arrival routine

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Pre-departure Exercise: A tired dog is more likely to rest peacefully when alone:

• Provide vigorous exercise 30-60 minutes before leaving
• Include both physical activity and mental challenges
• Use interactive toys and puzzle feeders
• Consider dog daycare or dog walker services for longer absences

Mental Enrichment Activities:

• Rotate toys to maintain novelty and interest
• Use food-dispensing toys and puzzle feeders
• Hide treats around the house for scavenger hunts
• Provide appropriate chewing outlets

Discover engaging Enrichment Activities for Dogs to keep your pup mentally stimulated

When Should You Seek Professional Help for Your Dog's Anxiety?

While many cases of separation anxiety can be managed with patience and consistent training, some situations require professional intervention. Recognizing when to seek help can prevent the problem from worsening and ensure your dog gets the most effective treatment.

Red Flag Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention

Safety Concerns:

• Self-injury from escape attempts (broken teeth, damaged nails, cuts)
• Destructive behavior that could harm your dog (swallowing foreign objects)
• Complete refusal to eat or drink when alone
• Signs of severe depression or learned helplessness

Escalating Symptoms:

• Increasing intensity or duration of anxiety episodes
• New symptoms appearing (house soiling in previously house-trained dogs)
• Anxiety occurring even with very brief absences (under 5 minutes)
• Spreading to other situations (car rides, vet visits, new people)

Quality of Life Impact:

• Your dog's anxiety is affecting your ability to work or maintain relationships
• Neighbors are complaining about noise
• Property damage is extensive or expensive
• You're considering rehoming or surrendering your dog

Types of Professional Help Available

Certified Dog Behaviorists:

• Specialists in animal behavior modification
• Can create customized behavior modification plans
• Often work in conjunction with veterinarians
• May offer in-home consultations for comprehensive assessment

Veterinary Behaviorists:

• Board-certified veterinarians with additional behavior training
• Can prescribe anti-anxiety medications when needed
• Provide medical evaluation to rule out underlying health issues
• Best choice for severe cases or when medication might be necessary

Professional Dog Trainers:

• Certified trainers with separation anxiety experience
• Can teach specific training techniques and provide ongoing support
• Often more affordable than behaviorists
• Look for trainers using positive reinforcement methods

What to Expect from Professional Consultation

Initial Assessment:

• Detailed history of your dog's symptoms and triggers
• Evaluation of your current routine and environment
• Discussion of previous training attempts and their outcomes
• Possible recommendation for medical evaluation

Treatment Plan Development:

• Customized behavior modification protocol
• Timeline for expected improvements
• Specific exercises and training techniques
• Guidelines for monitoring progress

Ongoing Support:

• Regular check-ins and plan adjustments
• Troubleshooting setbacks and challenges
• Additional resources and referrals as needed
• Long-term maintenance strategies

Medication Considerations

When Medication Might Be Recommended:

• Severe anxiety that doesn't respond to behavioral modification alone
• Self-injurious behaviors
• Complete inability to function when left alone
• Cases where anxiety prevents effective training

Common Anti-Anxiety Medications:

• SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline) for long-term anxiety management
• Anxiolytics (alprazolam, trazodone) for situational anxiety
• Natural alternatives (melatonin, gabapentin) for mild cases
• Combination approaches using both behavioral and pharmaceutical interventions

Important considerations:

• Medication works best when combined with behavioral modification
• Most anti-anxiety medications take 4-8 weeks to show full effects
• Regular monitoring and adjustment may be necessary
• Never stop anxiety medications abruptly

Address other Common Dog Behavior Problems with our natural solutions guide

How Can You Create the Perfect Environment for an Anxious Dog?

Your dog's physical environment plays a crucial role in managing separation anxiety. Small changes to their space can significantly reduce stress levels and promote relaxation when you're away.

Designing a Stress-Free Space

Safe Room Setup: Choose one room where your dog feels most comfortable:

• Remove or secure potentially dangerous items
• Provide comfortable bedding and favorite blankets
• Ensure adequate ventilation and temperature control
• Include water and potentially food if absences are long

Visual and Auditory Environment:

• Consider window access for visual stimulation (if not triggering)
• Use curtains or blinds to reduce external triggers if needed
• Provide background noise through music, TV, or white noise machines
• Avoid complete silence which can amplify anxiety-inducing sounds

Scent Environment:

• Leave recently worn clothing for comforting familiar scents
• Use calming aromatherapy diffusers with dog-safe essential oils
• Avoid strong cleaning products or air fresheners that might be overwhelming
• Consider pheromone diffusers (Adaptil) designed to calm dogs

Technology Solutions for Modern Dog Owners

Pet Cameras and Monitoring:

• Two-way audio cameras allow you to observe and potentially calm your dog
• Motion alerts can notify you of destructive behavior
• Some models include treat dispensers for positive reinforcement
• Useful for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans

Automated Comfort Systems:

• Timed feeding systems for longer absences
• Automated toy dispensers to maintain engagement
• Climate control systems to maintain comfortable temperature
• Music or sound systems on timers

Smart Home Integration:

• Automated lighting to simulate natural day/night cycles
• Remote-controlled calming music or sounds
• Security systems that can alert you to excessive barking
• Smart thermostats for optimal comfort

Exercise and Activity Preparation

Pre-departure Routine: Establish a consistent routine that tires your dog physically and mentally:

• Morning walk or vigorous play session
• Interactive feeding using puzzle toys
• Brief training session with high-value rewards
• Calm settling period before departure

During-absence Activities: Provide engaging activities that last throughout your absence:

• Frozen Kong toys stuffed with favorite treats
• Puzzle feeders that dispense meals slowly
• Chew toys appropriate for unsupervised use
• Rotating toy selection to maintain interest

Post-arrival Recovery: Have a plan for when you return:

• Allow your dog to decompress before demanding attention
• Provide outdoor bathroom break promptly
• Engage in calm, positive interaction
• Assess and clean up any accidents or damage calmly

Learn to Create a Calm Environment for Your Dog at Home with our detailed guide

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Treating Separation Anxiety?

Even well-intentioned dog owners can inadvertently worsen separation anxiety through common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls can help you avoid setbacks and achieve faster progress.

Training and Behavioral Mistakes

Punishment-Based Approaches:

• Never scold or punish your dog for anxiety-related destruction
• Avoid crate punishment or forcing prolonged confinement
• Don't use shock collars or other aversive tools
• Punishment increases anxiety and can worsen the condition

Inconsistent Training:

• All family members must follow the same protocols
• Maintain consistent departure and arrival routines
• Don't give in to anxious behaviors some days but not others
• Avoid mixed signals that confuse your dog

Moving Too Fast:

• Don't rush the desensitization process
• If your dog shows distress, go back to an easier step
• Progress should be gradual and at your dog's pace
• Forcing tolerance often leads to increased anxiety

Environmental and Management Errors

Attention-Seeking Reinforcement:

• Don't provide excessive attention before departures
• Avoid dramatic, emotional goodbyes
• Don't immediately comfort your dog when you return if they're overly excited
• Maintain calm, matter-of-fact energy around departures and arrivals

Inadequate Preparation:

• Don't leave without providing appropriate mental and physical stimulation
• Avoid leaving dogs without water or in uncomfortable conditions
• Don't ignore your dog's basic needs during treatment
• Ensure bathroom needs are met before longer absences

Unrealistic Expectations:

• Don't expect overnight improvements
• Avoid comparing your dog's progress to others
• Don't give up if you don't see immediate results
• Remember that setbacks are normal parts of the process

Medical and Health Oversights

Ignoring Physical Health:

• Rule out medical issues that might mimic or worsen anxiety
• Don't overlook pain or discomfort that could increase stress
• Consider age-related changes in senior dogs
• Address any underlying health conditions

Supplement and Medication Errors:

• Don't give human medications or supplements without veterinary approval
• Avoid using multiple calming products simultaneously without guidance
• Don't stop prescribed medications abruptly
• Always inform your vet about any natural remedies you're using

Lifestyle Factors:

• Don't neglect your own stress levels (dogs pick up on human anxiety)
• Avoid major routine changes during treatment when possible
• Don't overlook the impact of other pets or family dynamics
• Consider how your living situation affects your dog's stress levels

Building Long-Term Success: Maintenance and Prevention Strategies

Successfully treating separation anxiety is just the beginning. Maintaining progress and preventing relapse requires ongoing attention and occasional refresher training.

Maintenance Training Schedule

Weekly Practice Sessions: Even after your dog is comfortable alone, continue practicing:

• Mock departures and brief separations
• Departure cue desensitization exercises
• Independence training activities
• Confidence-building exercises

Monthly Assessment: Regularly evaluate your dog's comfort level:

• Monitor for any signs of returning anxiety
• Assess the effectiveness of current strategies
• Adjust environmental factors as needed
• Update training techniques as your dog ages

Life Change Preparation

Anticipating Challenges: Prepare for situations that might trigger anxiety relapse:

• Moving to a new home
• Changes in work schedule
• Addition of new family members or pets
• Holiday schedules or travel plans

Proactive Strategies:

• Gradually introduce changes when possible
• Maintain consistent routines during transitions
• Provide extra support during stressful periods
• Return to basic training exercises if needed

Success Monitoring

Positive Indicators of Long-term Success:

• Calm behavior during departure preparations
• Comfortable rest when alone for extended periods
• Normal appetite and elimination patterns
• Relaxed, appropriate greetings upon return
• Confidence in other potentially stressful situations

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Return of destructive behaviors
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Increased clinginess or attention-seeking
• Vocalization during departures
• Physical symptoms of stress (excessive panting, drooling)

Conclusion: Your Journey to a Calmer, Happier Dog

Dealing with dog separation anxiety can feel overwhelming, but remember that thousands of dogs and their families have successfully overcome this challenge. The key lies in understanding that separation anxiety is a treatable condition that responds well to patience, consistency, and the right combination of natural remedies and behavioral modification.

The most important takeaways from this guide:

• Early identification and intervention lead to better outcomes
• Natural remedies can be highly effective, especially when combined with training
• Progress takes time – most dogs show significant improvement within 3-6 months
• Professional help is available when you need it
• Prevention is always easier than treatment

Remember that every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be prepared to adjust your approach, celebrate small victories, and maintain realistic expectations throughout the process.

Your dog's separation anxiety doesn't define them or your relationship. With dedication and the right strategies, you can help your anxious companion develop the confidence and security they need to be comfortable when you're apart.

We'd love to hear about your experience! What natural remedies or training techniques have worked best for your dog's separation anxiety? Share your success stories and challenges in the comments below – your insights might help another dog owner on their journey to solving separation anxiety.

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Related Articles:

• Positive Reinforcement Dog Training: Effective & Humane Methods
• Understanding Dog Body Language: What Your Pup is Telling You
• Natural Calming Aids for Anxious Dogs
• Building Confidence in Shy or Fearful Dogs
• Common Dog Behavior Problems & How to Solve Them Naturally

External Resources:

• American Kennel Club: Dog Separation Anxiety
• ASPCA: Separation Anxiety Guidelines
• PetMD: How to Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety

This article was written by certified dog behavior experts and reviewed by veterinary behaviorists. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new treatment program for your dog's anxiety.