Dog Anxiety Awareness Month: Tips for Supporting Dogs with Separation Anxiety

May is Dog Anxiety Awareness Month, and we want to take a moment to highlight something many dogs experience but is not always easy to recognize or manage.

Separation anxiety can show up in a lot of different ways, from barking or whining to more destructive behaviors. It can be stressful for both dogs and their people, but with the right approach, it is something that can improve with time.

We connected with Underdog’s dog trainer, Jorge, to share some of his top tips for supporting dogs who may be experiencing separation anxiety.

Start simple and go slow

When working with a dog with separation anxiety, the key is to keep things simple and gradual. Start by leaving for very short periods and slowly build up time so your dog learns being alone is safe. Avoid relying only on distractions, and pay attention to early signs like pacing or whining, which mean it’s time to slow things down.

Keep comings and goings low-key

It’s also important to keep departures and arrivals calm and boring. Skip the big goodbyes and over-the-top greetings so leaving and coming home don’t become emotional events.

Build positive associations

Focus on rewarding your dog when they’re relaxed. Giving them something like a stuffed toy or chew can help create a positive association with you leaving, while a predictable routine and enough exercise beforehand can help them feel more settled.

Add mental enrichment

Adding short sessions of clicker training or shaping games can help too. These activities help mentally tire your dog out and build confidence by teaching them how to problem-solve and earn reinforcement.

Avoid punishment

Just as important, don’t punish anxious behavior. It comes from fear, not disobedience, and punishment will make things worse.

Know when to get extra support

For more severe cases, it’s worth talking to a veterinarian about whether medication could help take the edge off the anxiety so training can actually work. Used appropriately, it’s a support tool, not a shortcut.

Separation anxiety can be challenging, but the right support can make a meaningful difference over time.

Overall, the goal is to teach, step by step, that being alone isn’t something to worry about.