Separation Anxiety in Dogs: How to Calm an Anxious Dog?

If you've ever come home to a chewed-up shoe, scratched door or are getting complaints from neighbours, chances are your dog might be struggling with separation anxiety. It’s more common than you’d think and thankfully, there are effective ways to help your furry friend feel safe and settled, even when you're not around.

What is separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety is when dogs become overly stressed when left alone or separated from their favourite human. It can range from mild pacing and whining to destructive behaviour, barking or even attempts to escape.

Some common signs of separation anxiety in dogs include:

• Excessive barking or howling when alone,
• Scratching at doors or windows,
• Pacing, drooling or trembling,
• Going to the toilet indoors, even if house-trained,
• Destructive chewing.
  

Why does it happen?

Dogs are pack animals. Being left alone can make some dogs feel vulnerable and unsafe. Triggers vary: a change in routine, a house move, a new family member or even returning to work after a long time at home can stir up anxiety.

So, how can you calm your anxious dog?

Establish a routine

Dogs love consistency. Try to feed, walk and play at the same time each day. Routines help them feel secure and more confident when you're not home.

Create a calm environment

Leaving soft music on or using a calming dog playlist can help drown out sudden noises that might scare your dog. A snug space with their bed, toys and a familiar scent (like an old t-shirt of yours) also helps.

Train for alone time

Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods and gradually increase the time. This helps build trust that you’ll always come back. Reward calm behaviour with treats or praise. Never punish anxiety!

Use natural calming aids

Sometimes, even with the best routine and careful training, our dogs need a little extra help to feel truly at ease. That’s where calming supplements can really step in, gently supporting your pup through those wobbly moments without leaving them drowsy or spaced out.

One supplement that’s won the hearts of many dog owners is Stress Relief. More than just a quick fix, it’s a thoughtfully crafted blend of natural ingredients, designed to help your dog feel safe and settled when the world feels a bit too much.

At the heart of the formula are Valerian Root and Ashwagandha, two herbal extracts long celebrated for their calming and grounding effects. Alongside these is L-Tryptophan, a key player in the production of serotonin, the hormone responsible for promoting a sense of calm and emotional balance.

And if your dog’s the fussy type, there’s good news. These drops come in a delicious Salmon flavour, making them more of a treat than a chore. Just a few drops added to their food or directly into their mouth and you’ll start to notice a change in as little as 1 to 2 hours.