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My dog chews when I'm not home. Is it separation anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Female | spayed | 6 years and 4 months old | 14 lbs

I have a six year old beagle mix. There have been a few incidents where she has chewed the carpet, chewed of buttons on coats, and strings on jackets. The only time this behavior seems to occur is if I’m not around the house as much that day or stray from routine. Is this an anxiety thing? If so what can I do to lessen anxiety?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on December 19th, 2017

Poor Prim. This is likely due to separation anxiety. Sometimes they feel more comforted if they are in a crate. You can try this. This will also help prevent her from ingesting something that could potentially harm her or get stuck. If she doesn’t like a crate then I would talk to your vet about starting her on an anti-anxiety medicine like fluoxetine. I have had good success with this medicine for anxiety. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 7th, 2018

    Poor Prim! This definitely sounds like an anxiety related issue especially since it started with the change in your work hours. I would start by trying a calming collar like adaptil or sentry. If this isn't helping, I would talk to your vet about starting her on an anti-anxiety medicine like fluoxetine or trazadone to help calm her while you are away and prevent her from chewing things up. I hope this helps!

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