Separation anxiety: helping a dog who can't stay alone

Crying when you leave, targeted destruction around doors and windows, accidents only in your absence: these are the classic signs of separation anxiety, one of the most common and most misunderstood problems. The dog isn't "taking revenge": they're having a genuine panic attack.

The answer is not scolding on your return — that makes everything worse — but building independence gradually. Start with absences of a few seconds, coming back before anxiety rises, and extend the time only while the dog stays relaxed. Consistency matters more than duration.

Mental activation routines before leaving help too: a quality walk, a scent game, a stuffed Kong to finish while you're out. The goal is to associate your absence with something pleasant and predictable.

In more intense cases DIY isn't enough: a trainer experienced in behaviour, possibly teamed with your vet, can make the difference. Find a professional near you on MondoPet and read other owners' experiences.