What age do dogs get separation anxiety

If you’ve ever paused at the door, keys in hand, listening to your dog’s sudden whines or seeing them paw at the floor as you prepare to leave, you’re not alone in wondering: Will they ever get used to this? Separation anxiety can make leaving the house feel like a guilt trip, whether you’re heading to work or just running errands. Take my friend Mia’s story: her 8-month-old husky mix, Rocky, would scratch the door until his paws bleed whenever she left, leaving her rushing home every hour. She worried this stress would never end—but with the right approach, most dogs do learn to feel secure alone.

Dogs develop separation anxiety not out of stubbornness, but because of their natural instincts. As pack animals, being separated from their “pack” (you) can trigger fear—especially for puppies separated from their litter early, or rescue dogs who’ve experienced abandonment. Anxiety isn’t a phase that “fixes itself” with time alone, though. Without guidance, their stress can worsen, turning into destructive behavior or excessive barking. The key isn’t waiting it out—it’s building their confidence that you’ll always return, using methods that make being alone feel safe, not scary.

The good news is, with consistent, positive training, most dogs improve significantly. Start small: practice “mini departures.” Grab your keys, put on your shoes, then sit back down and give them a treat. Repeat this until they stay calm during these “false starts.” Then try leaving for 1 minute, returning to praise and a treat if they’re quiet. Gradually extend the time—2 minutes, 5 minutes—always rewarding calm behavior. Leave them with a stuffed Kong frozen with peanut butter or a favorite toy to keep their mind occupied. My neighbor’s spaniel, Lola, used to howl for hours; after 6 weeks of this slow training, she now naps while he’s at the gym. Never scold or punish them for anxious behavior—yelling only reinforces that being alone leads to stress.

As a responsible dog owner in the U.S., remember that managing anxiety ties into community and legal norms. Keep rabies vaccines current—all states require it by law, and your vet can help track booster schedules. In apartments, excessive barking from anxiety can strain neighbor relationships; consider white noise machines or calming pheromone diffusers to keep noise down. When out walking, always carry poop bags—littering isn’t just illegal in most cities (fines can hit $100+) but shows respect for your community. For dogs with severe anxiety, consult a certified trainer or vet—never use shock collars or punishment, which are not only inhumane but counterproductive.

With patience, your dog will learn that “goodbye” isn’t permanent. Those quiet naps while you’re gone? They’re not just possible—they’re the result of building trust, one small step at a time.