My dog's separation anxiety is rapidly worsening. What can I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Cockapoo | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 20 lbs
My dog has always had a bit of mild anxiety - usually it was only seen when my boyfriend and I left the apartment or if he was particularly "spooked" by something (he's easily startled by things like the broom). Last year I got a second dog, and he started showing more severe separation anxiety when I would leave for work in the morning. However, after a month or two, he stopped doing this and seemed to be okay. Recently, his anxiety has escalated very very rapidly. Starting about a month ago, w
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 5th, 2018
I would first make sure there is nothing underlying with Corduroy. It seems like there has always been a bit of separation anxiety with him and with his history I would say it is less likely medical. I would talk to your veterinarian about medicine to help Corduroy especially when you are not home. Sometimes getting a second dog does help, while other times it does not. It may be where he may calm down a bit but since his anxiety is getting worse quickly I would recommend doing a trial of medication. While you are trying the medication I would also consult with a behaviorist or a trainer to help with the situation. Your veterinarian should be able to give you names of either a veterinary behaviorist in your area or a trainer that they trust. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 26th, 2017
There is no one "best" medication for separation anxiety. Treatment involves a multi-modal approach of medication, diet, training and training aids such as adaptil. I'm not purposely being vague but separation anxiety is a complex issue and there is not a magic cure or medication. My own dog is on 3 different daily medications, supplements, wears a pheromone collar and is crated or boarded at my vet clinic if left alone more than an hour. Dealing with separation anxiety takes time and patience and commitment. It may take several medication adjustments to find the correct dose or treatments that work for each individual dog. Depending on the level of the separation anxiety working with a veterinary behaviorist is often the most beneficial. Good luck and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 31st, 2017
Poor guy. With this level of anxiety and what sounds like separation anxiety I would suggest both medical therapy and behavioral training to help Dexter revert back to his normal self. Here is a website link to help find behaviorist in your area https://iaabc.org/consultants Behaviorist are certified and trained to help pets get through anxiety issues like Dexters. In conjunction with this training you will need to get Dexter on anti-anxiety medicaiton prescribed by your vet. I would suggest Fluoxetine or Clomicalm used consistently for the first 2-3 months and then he may be able to taper off the medicaiton. Other helpful add-ons that may also help are- 1)Pet thundershirt, 2) Adaptil collar. However these should only be used in conjunction if desired, they likely won't work as a solo therapy. I hope that your pet Dexter is able to get over his anxiety issues. Best wishes with his therapy and take care. Here is more info on Separation anxiety in pets http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3144
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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