Bringing a puppy home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with challenges. One of the most common behavioural issues new dog owners face is puppy separation anxiety.
This can lead to significant stress for both the puppy and their owner. Fortunately, with the right approach and training, it can be prevented or effectively treated.
What is puppy separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes overly distressed when left alone. Puppies are naturally attached to their caregivers, but if they fail to learn how to be alone, they may develop separation problems that manifest in various distress behaviours.
Common symptoms of anxiety in puppies include:
- Excessive barking or howling
- Destructive behaviours like chewing furniture
- Scratching doors or windows
- Pacing or restlessness
- House soiling despite toilet training
- Attempts to escape
- Drooling, panting, or loss of appetite
These symptoms of anxiety go beyond normal puppy fussiness and indicate that your puppy is struggling with being left alone.
Causes of separation anxiety
Some puppies are more prone to separation problems due to their background or breed. For example:
- Rescue or shelter dogs may have experienced abandonment, leading to hyper-attachment
- Small breeds and people-oriented dogs often form strong bonds and dislike being left alone
- Sudden life changes like moving house, a new work schedule, or the loss of a family member can also trigger anxiety
How to prevent separation anxiety in puppies
The best approach is to start preventing separation anxiety from day one. Here are some practical steps:
Use training tools like the Zigzag app
The Zigzag app offers tailored puppy training plans developed by experts to tackle puppy separation anxiety. It provides daily guidance, behaviour tracking, and step-by-step support, making it easier for dog owners to build a confident, independent pup. It's especially helpful when building a training routine to address anxiety triggers.
Crate training for comfort and calm
Used properly, crate training provides a secure, den-like space where your puppy feels safe. Introduce the crate gradually using treats, praise, and calm encouragement. Over time, your puppy will learn that the crate is a place of comfort, not punishment.
Gradual exposure to alone time
Start by leaving your puppy alone for short periods, just a few minutes at a time, then slowly increase the duration. This method of gradual exposure teaches them that being alone isn’t scary and that you will always return.
Build healthy attachment
Puppies need strong bonds, but excessive clinginess can lead to separation problems. Encourage independence by avoiding over-coddling. Reward calm behaviour and allow your puppy to spend time in a different room from you now and then.
Regular exercise and stimulation
A tired puppy is a happy puppy. Exercise helps burn off energy and reduce anxiety. Combine physical activity with mental stimulation—use puzzle toys, sniffing games, and short training sessions to keep your puppy occupied and balanced.
Disrupt anxiety triggers
Dogs often pick up on departure cues, putting on shoes or picking up keys. Mix up your routine so these cues don’t always lead to separation. This can reduce anticipatory stress and help reduce stress overall.
With proper training, many puppies improve by 6–12 months. However, some may need continued support or professional help if the problem persists.
How to treat separation anxiety
If your puppy already displays signs of separation anxiety, the following coping strategies can help:
- Create a safe haven: ensure your puppy has a designated space, such as a crate or comfy bed, where they feel secure. Include comfort items like blankets or clothing with your scent. A safe retreat can help them feel calm while you're away
- Desensitisation and counter-conditioning: help your puppy form positive associations with alone time. Offer a long-lasting food toy, like a stuffed Kong, every time you leave. Start with brief departures and slowly extend your time away. This counter-conditioning teaches your puppy that being alone comes with rewards
- Increase exercise before departures: give your puppy a good workout before leaving. A well-exercised pup is more likely to relax and sleep through your absence rather than show destructive behaviours
Use home remedies: natural aids like pheromone diffusers, calming music, and familiar scents can help. However, behavioural training remains the most effective long-term solution
How do you manage puppy separation anxiety at night?
Night-time can be challenging for puppies experiencing separation anxiety. Start by placing their crate or bed near yours to provide comfort and reassurance. Once they're sleeping calmly, gradually move it farther away. Use a familiar-scented item like a worn T-shirt to help soothe them. Avoid reinforcing whining by only responding when necessary. With consistency and patience, your puppy will learn to settle and sleep independently through the night.
Puppy separation anxiety training schedule
A structured training plan is key to helping your puppy gradually adjust to being alone. Follow this gentle, four-week programme to build your puppy’s confidence and reduce separation anxiety through positive, consistent routines.
Week 1: Short absences indoors
Begin by leaving your puppy alone in a safe, puppy-proofed space or crate for just 1–2 minutes. Stay nearby but out of sight. Use treats or a food-dispensing toy to create a positive association with your absence. Return calmly and avoid making a fuss.
Week 2: Extend time to 5–10 minutes
Slowly increase the duration of your absences to 5–10 minutes. Continue using comforting items like familiar toys or a piece of clothing with your scent. Monitor your puppy's behaviour and only progress if it remains calm.
Week 3: Step outside for 15–30 minutes
Begin leaving the house completely. Start with 15-minute intervals and build up to 30 minutes, always rewarding calm behaviour. Vary your routine to avoid creating anxiety triggers (e.g., pick up your keys but don’t always leave immediately).
Week 4: Build up to an hour or more
Gradually increase the time you're away to an hour. Ensure each increase happens only when your puppy consistently remains relaxed during shorter periods. If signs of distress emerge, scale back and progress more slowly.
Puppy separation anxiety is a common but manageable issue. By recognising the signs early and implementing strategies like crate training, exercise, gradual exposure, and consistent routines, you can help your puppy become more comfortable when alone. With time, patience, and the right approach, your puppy can grow into a well-adjusted, happy, and independent dog.
