Separation anxiety occurs when a dog cannot be left alone calmly. This can lead to vocalizations , destruction , house soiling, and distress. The solution is neither magical nor punitive: it relies on a gradual desensitization protocol , daily enrichment , and stable routines . Follow this structured guide to establish a calming foundation, step by step.

Recognizing separation anxiety

• Before departure : be hypervigilant about your rituals (shoes, keys), restlessness, panting.
• After departure : persistent barking/crying, scratching of doors/windows, targeted destruction.
• Physiology : hypersalivation, elevated heart rate, sometimes urinary accidents.
• On the return : an overwhelming, clingy welcome, difficulty settling down.

Why does this happen? (causes & triggers)

• Lack of habituation to solitude (puppies, recent adoptions).
• Changes in routine (moving house, schedules, separation from a loved one).
• Over-attachment reinforced by constant interactions.
• Unspent energy (little mental/physical activity).
• Adverse experiences during absence (noise, storm, construction site).

Most common mistakes

• Punishing destruction increases distress and teaches nothing.
• Starting all at once for excessively long periods: crosses the threshold.
• Under-stimulation : no relevant occupation during absence.
• Emotionally charged rituals (theatrical farewells/returns): reinforce the intensity of the moment.
• Ignoring safety : unprepared environment, accessible dangerous objects.

5-phase protocol (desensitization + counter-conditioning)

Objective: to make leaving and being alone a neutral or positive event. Only move forward when the dog remains calm (breathing, posture) for several consecutive repetitions.

Phase 1 — Defusing departure rituals

• Handle keys, coat, shoes several times a day without leaving. Zero emotion, zero departure.
• When the dog ignores these signals, proceed to phase 2.

Phase 2 — Gradual micro-outputs (seconds → minutes)

1. Open/close the door, 1–3 seconds outside → return before any sign of stress.
2. Repeat 6–10 times, then increase to 10–30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes…
3. Vary the “staging” (taking keys, no keys, coat, no coat) to break the predictive patterns.

Phase 3 — Counter-conditioning: solitude = cool activities

• Introduce some occupational toys (licking mats, puzzles, stuffed Kongs) before departure.
• Reserve these resources only for controlled absences to create a positive association.

Phase 4 — Extend the duration & realistic distractions

• Increase the duration (5, 10, 15, 20, 30 min) while maintaining a calm attitude .
• Add minor external distractions (hallway, soft noise) to generalize the skill.

Phase 5 — Daily Consolidation

• Alternate between “easy” and “medium” days (avoid doing it every day).
• Maintain a stable routine (meal times, outings, scent games).

Tip: film short sessions (smartphone) to objectify the emotional state.

Enrichment & Useful Occupations

• Scent games (hidden kibble, snuffle mat) 5–10 min before departure → decrease in excitement.
• Licking mat (recipes below): self-soothing action.
• Progressive food puzzles to maintain interest.
• A quality walk (scent + calm walking) is more effective than a simple run.

👉 See: Toys & puzzles for activities · Licking mats

Departures & returns: the right way to travel

• Neutral departures : no emotional goodbyes; provide the activity, leave calmly.
• Gentle feedback : ignore 30–60 seconds if agitated, reward when the dog settles.
• Secure area : delimited and enriched space (barrier, park), water available.
• Ambiance : soft music or low-volume white noise (if soothing for the dog).

Track progress (simple indicators)

• Tolerance threshold : the duration during which the dog remains calm.
• Signs of stress : vocalizations, pacing, panting, licking.
• Quality of rest after absence: does he fall asleep easily?

 Date | Duration of absence | Resource | Vocalizations (0-5) | Agitation (0-5) | Observations

FAQ

How long does it take for a visible improvement to occur?

Recovery typically takes 1–3 weeks for short absences. Consolidation (longer absences) can take several additional weeks.

Is a cage a solution?

Only if she has been positively trained and perceived as a safe haven. Never force her into confinement with a panicked dog.

My dog ​​is destroying puzzles: what should I do?

Start with very easy levels, load up on very attractive food puzzles and stay present the first few times.

Should I ignore my dog ​​permanently?

No. Simply make departures/returns neutral ; the rest of the time, increase quality interactions.