How to manage your dog’s separation anxiety, with tips from a dog behaviourist

We all know our dogs miss us when we’re away, but how do we help manage their anxiety and calm their nerves when we’re not there?

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Published: August 14, 2026 at 6:31 PM

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Leaving the house can be hard enough when you've got children to organise, without a distressed dog adding another layer of worry. But if your pet starts barking, whining or scratching at the door as soon as you disappear, it could be a sign they're struggling with being left alone.

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Separation anxiety can cause genuine distress for dogs, and behaviours that might look like 'naughtiness', such as chewing furniture or toileting indoors, can actually be signs that your pet isn't coping.

Canine and Feline Behaviour Association registered dog behaviourist and therapist Adem Fehmi, who works with Barking Heads and runs Hertfordshire-based Dog-ease, has shared six practical ways owners can help their dogs feel more comfortable when they're home alone.

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What are the signs of separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety describes distress experienced by some dogs when they're separated from their owner. According to the RSPCA and Dogs Trust, signs of separation-related behaviour can include:

These behaviours shouldn't automatically be treated as your dog misbehaving. If they happen specifically when you leave, anxiety or distress could be behind them.

If you're concerned about your dog's behaviour, particularly if it's severe or sudden, speak to your vet. They can help rule out medical problems and advise whether you need support from a qualified behaviourist.

6 expert tips to help ease your dog's separation anxiety

Adem recommends thinking about your dog's physical and mental needs, as well as how you behave when leaving and returning home.

1. Give them appropriate exercise before you leave

Exercise before a period at home may help some dogs settle afterwards, but how much they need will depend on their age, breed, health and energy levels.

Adem explains: “effectively exercising your dog will help drain some of your dog’s energy, and they will more likely settle and rest after when you’re out. Similar to the benefits exercise have on humans, exercise has a positive effect on the mental well-being of our dogs and helps keep them calmer.”

However, more isn't automatically better.

It’s important to remember that long walks are not suitable for all breeds or ages and a lengthy stroll might not even tire a very high-energy dog if they have a lot of stamina. So, it is important to tailor your exercise sessions to your dog and their life stage.

Adem Fehmi, dog behaviourist and therapist

2. Give your dog something to do

Providing an appropriate activity can keep your dog's mind occupied while you're out and help create a more positive association with alone time.

Adem says: “the quicker your dog gets bored when left alone, the sooner it may start to feel anxious about you being away.

“Giving them an activity will keep their mind occupied and act as a positive reinforcer for being left alone because they get to do something fun! Food dispensing toys are perfect as an activity. Start with something easy so your dog’s interest builds. Then, once they become an expert, you can up the challenge, so it takes them longer.”

Choose toys that are appropriate for your dog's size and chewing habits and that you're confident can safely be left with them unsupervised.

3. Create a calmer environment

Background sound may help some dogs settle and can mask noises outside that could otherwise make them more alert.

Adem explains: “playing classical or soft music can help your dog relax, just like us humans. I’ve found Classic FM always to be a winner! Music can also help drown out any external noises that might cause your dog to worry outside the comfort of your home.”

4. Give your dog their own comfortable space

A familiar bed or resting area can give your dog somewhere comfortable to settle. Adem recommends establishing this as a positive space rather than somewhere they're only sent when you're leaving.

“I recommend ensuring your dog’s designated bed area is an inviting space to entice them to keep calm and relaxed whilst you are away.

“This should be trained from a young age. The bed should be a safe space, entirely theirs, with all their favourite things there too. This is a great place to leave their toys or treats when you leave, to distract them from your departure.”

Never use a crate as a solution for separation anxiety without considering whether your dog is already comfortable and appropriately trained to use one.

5. Keep your return low-key

It's tempting to give your dog a huge welcome when you walk through the door, especially if they're delighted to see you. But Adem recommends keeping arrivals calm.

Although it’s tempting to make a huge fuss about our dogs when we return, this can make us leaving again a bigger deal than it necessarily needs to be. We want our dogs to learn that our coming and going throughout the day is normal and not to be looked forward to or feared.

Adem Fehmi, dog behaviourist and therapist

6. Consider getting some extra help

If your dog struggles with being alone and you're regularly away for longer periods, arranging for someone trusted to stay with or visit them could help.

Adem says: “if you’re away consistently for long periods of the day, another consideration is to hire a dog sitter to entertain you whilst you’re gone.

“Dogs can easily become susceptible to changes in scenery, so keeping them at home where they’re comfortable with a regular sitter will calm them, rather than in kennels which may cause further stress (if they’re not used to this environment!).”

When should you get professional help?

If your dog's distress continues despite changes at home, or they're hurting themselves, attempting to escape or showing severe anxiety, don't simply wait for them to get used to being alone.

Start by speaking to your vet, who can check for health problems that might be contributing to changes in behaviour. They can also help you find an appropriately qualified dog behaviour professional if your pet needs more specialist support.

Separation problems can vary significantly between dogs, so what works for one family pet won't necessarily be right for another. A plan tailored to your dog's individual behaviour, health and circumstances is the safest place to start.

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Authors

Finn ByrneEcommerce Writer

Finn Byrne is a Digital Writer for Immediate Media. He works across several brands including The Recommended, RadioTimes.com, MadeforMums and BBC Gardeners’ World. Finn has previously written for publications including MyLondon, The Mirror, The Express, and The Star. When not writing Finn enjoys spending time on the football pitch and getting stuck into a book.

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