Separation anxiety can be a challenging experience for both dogs and their owners.

3/24/2025 | Sniff & Bark

It often leads to destructive behaviors, excessive barking, and distress whenever you leave the house. However, with a few simple strategies, you can help ease your dog's anxiety and make time apart a stress-free experience. Here are three effective ways to help your pup feel more comfortable when left alone.

1. Gradually Increase Time Spent Apart

One of the best ways to help your dog get used to being alone is by gradually increasing the amount of time they spend away from you. Try these steps:

• Leave them in a separate room two to three times a day, even if just for a few minutes.

• Avoid letting them follow you everywhere, including into the washroom.

• Make departures and returns low-key to prevent reinforcing anxious behavior.

By making alone time a normal part of their day, your dog will become more comfortable with being independent.

2. Incorporate Alone Time into Training and Feeding Routines

Including alone time in daily activities helps create positive associations with being on their own. You can do this by:

• Practicing the "stay" command while increasing the duration before rewarding them.

• Having your dog eat in a separate room, reinforcing that being alone is safe and rewarding.

• Using food puzzles or treat-dispensing toys to keep them occupied and engaged during solo time.

This structured training helps build confidence and reduces stress when they need to be left alone.

3. Establish a Post-Walk Alone Time Routine

Routine is key to helping your dog feel secure. A great way to build this is by associating walks with short periods of alone time. Try the following:

• After every walk, leave your dog alone for a short while before interacting again.

• Keep your departure calm and consistent to prevent anxiety from building up.

• Over time, your dog will understand that after a walk, you leave—but you always come back!

By making alone time predictable and routine, your dog will feel reassured that your absence is temporary.

Helping Your Dog Feel Secure When Alone

Helping your dog overcome separation anxiety requires patience and consistency, but small changes can make a big difference. By increasing their time spent apart, incorporating alone time into feeding and training, and creating a structured post-walk routine, you can set your pup up for success. Over time, they'll learn that being alone isn't something to fear—it's just another part of their day!