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My dog has separation anxiety. How can I help him manage it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog had developed separation anxiety

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 23rd, 2017

This can be a manageable condition. Slowly acclimate your dog to your absence. Prepare to leave the house several times during the day and night. Leave sometimes and other times stay. Do not make a big deal about leaving or returning. Initially, step outside for a minute or two then walk back inside. Ignore him/her for 15 minutes or until he/she calms down each time you return. Gradually increase the length of your absence. Provide special toys or treats to be used only when you leave. Use praise and small rewards as he/she progresses. The use of pheromone collars or sprays, such as the DAP diffuser or Adaptil collar, may help to ease any anxiety. Consider an exam your vet as well as an evaluation with a veterinary behaviorist or trainer. A combination of medication and behavior modification may be required in severe cases.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 13th, 2018

    Gradual desensitization is recommended. Leave Hudson alone for ever increasing periods of time. Initially, step out of eyesight for a few seconds. Gradually increase the time and step outside of the house for short periods. Prepare to leave several times during the day. Leave sometimes, and other times stay. Don't make a big deal when leaving or returning. Ignore Hudson for 15 minutes or until he calms down. Pheromone products, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may decrease any anxiety. A special toy or frozen, treat filled Kong toy can be used as a distraction when you leave. Take it up though upon your return. Be patient and be consistent. If he becomes destructive or self harms, discuss medication with your veterinarian.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 22nd, 2020

    What you can do now is to start acclimating him to your absence. Spend more time away from the house. Consider setting up a special bed for him that isn't in your room or on your bed. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may help to decrease any anxiety. you will need to Institute these steps gradually. Remember to praise and reward him as he progresses. If he becomes destructive or self-mutilates, then an exam with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist would be recommended. A combination of medication and behavioral modification techniques may be needed to address his separation anxiety.

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