From my experience, the telltale signs that your dog might be dealing with separation anxiety include destructive behavior when you leave them alone, such as chewing on furniture or excessive barking. My pooch used to tear up the entire living room! It’s like they’re trying to keep busy or vent out their frustrations. Usually, they’re perfectly well-behaved when you’re around, which is a key indicator. Also, look out for them following you from room to room – it’s their way of making sure you’re not going to leave them alone. Getting a camera helped me see what my dog was up to when I was out, and yeah, it was pretty eye-opening!

Separation anxiety in dogs can be pretty concerning. A friend of mine had to deal with her Labrador that showed signs of distress like pacing and excessive drooling every time she would leave for work. What worked for her was gradually increasing the time her dog was left alone, starting from a few minutes and then extending it. It’s also important to avoid making a big deal when you leave or return home, as this can reinforce the anxiety.

As a dog enthusiast, I’ve read quite a bit about this, and while I’m not a vet, here’s what I’ve learned: Dogs with separation anxiety often manifest stress in various ways. These can include excessive barking, whining, or howling when left alone. Some might even try to escape, which can be dangerous. They could also have ‘accidents’ despite being house trained or turn destructive, targeting doors, windows, or personal items. Monitoring your dog’s behavior and consulting with a professional can provide insights tailored to your specific situation.