Panic, not spite
Separation anxiety is a panic response to being left alone or separated from attachment figures. Signs include barking or howling, destructive escape attempts (doors, windows, crates), house soiling, pacing, drooling and not eating while alone. Dogs aren’t being spiteful; they’re distressed.
Other problems can look similar: boredom, incomplete house training, noise phobia or simply not having been taught to be alone. Filming your dog when you leave is the best way to tell. Signs that start within minutes of departure suggest true separation distress.
Key takeaways
- Separation anxiety is panic, not spite.
- Boredom and noise phobias can look similar.
- Film your dog to understand what is happening.
Training session: Film your departure
- Set up a phone or camera to record the room your dog stays in.
- Leave as usual for 10 minutes.
- Watch the video and note what happens and when.
- Write down the time the first sign of distress appears.
Troubleshooting: If your dog is distressed within seconds, keep absences to a minimum while you plan training.