Dog Separation Issues

Dog Separation Issues: Behavioural Triggers and Training for Independence

Key Takeaways

  • Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioural problems in Australian dogs, especially in households where owners work long hours or live in apartments.
  • Triggers can develop early in puppyhood or later in life due to environmental changes such as moving house, a change in family dynamics, or long periods of absence.
  • Symptoms include destructive behaviour, barking, howling, pacing, and physical stress signs, which can negatively affect both dogs and their owners.
  • Training for independence is essential and involves techniques like gradual desensitisation, counterconditioning, crate training, and structured routines.
  • Enrichment activities and interactive products such as puzzle toys, feeders, and calming beds can reduce anxiety and keep dogs occupied when left alone.
  • Professional help may be necessary in severe cases, with trainers, behaviourists, or veterinarians offering tailored solutions including medication if needed.
  • Prevention is possible, especially when raising puppies, through balanced bonding, socialisation, and early independence training.

Introduction

Separation anxiety is more than just a dog missing its owner—it is a serious behavioural issue that can impact the wellbeing of both pets and their families. In Australia, where over 48% of households own at least one dog (Animal Medicines Australia, 2022), this challenge is particularly widespread. With many owners balancing busy work schedules, long commutes, or frequent travel, dogs often spend extended hours alone, leading to behavioural and emotional difficulties.

At its core, separation anxiety stems from a dog’s instinctive need to remain close to its social group. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and while domestication has adapted them to human households, their deep-rooted reliance on companionship has not changed. When left alone, some dogs cope well, but others experience overwhelming stress that manifests in destructive or disruptive ways.

This issue is not only a problem for the dog—it affects the entire household. From damaged furniture and flooring to noise complaints in rental properties, the consequences can become both emotionally and financially taxing for owners. In fact, behavioural problems such as separation anxiety are one of the leading reasons dogs are surrendered to shelters in Australia, according to the RSPCA.

Yet, there is hope. With the right knowledge, training methods, and supportive products, separation anxiety can be managed, and in many cases, significantly reduced. This article explores the behavioural triggers that cause separation anxiety, outlines step-by-step training techniques to encourage independence, and highlights practical solutions tailored for Australian pet owners.


Understanding Dog Separation Issues

What Is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Separation anxiety in dogs is a behavioural disorder that occurs when a dog experiences extreme distress in response to being left alone or separated from their primary caregiver. While most dogs may show mild restlessness or boredom when alone, dogs with separation anxiety exhibit intense and disruptive behaviours that stem from fear, panic, or emotional insecurity rather than disobedience.

Typical examples include:

  • Persistent barking, whining, or howling when the owner leaves.
  • Attempting to escape through doors, windows, or fences.
  • Destroying household items, particularly near exits.
  • Urinating or defecating indoors despite being toilet-trained.

Unlike normal boredom behaviours, which are sporadic and can be redirected with stimulation, separation anxiety follows a predictable pattern—it is triggered specifically by the absence of the owner and subsides when they return.

The Psychology Behind It

To understand why separation anxiety occurs, it helps to consider the evolutionary background of dogs. Dogs are pack animals by origin, descended from wolves that relied heavily on group living for hunting and survival. This evolutionary instinct has carried over into domesticated dogs, making social bonds central to their sense of security.

When dogs are left alone, they may interpret the absence of their “pack” as a threat to survival. For some, this results in mild discomfort, but for others, it escalates into full-blown panic. Veterinary behaviourists often describe separation anxiety as an emotional response akin to a panic disorder in humans.

“Separation anxiety isn’t about a dog being stubborn or naughty—it’s about genuine fear and distress.” — Dr. Kersti Seksel, Australian Veterinary Behaviourist

Psychologically, separation anxiety is reinforced over time if left unaddressed. Dogs may begin to associate specific departure cues—such as picking up keys, putting on shoes, or closing the front door—with impending isolation, causing anxiety even before the owner leaves. Over time, this anticipatory stress can compound the problem.


Common Triggers of Separation Issues

Separation anxiety doesn’t arise from a single cause—it is usually a mix of genetic predisposition, environment, and experiences. Understanding these triggers can help owners identify why their dog is struggling and take targeted steps to reduce anxiety.

Early Life Experiences

The foundation of a dog’s behaviour is built in puppyhood, and negative experiences during this critical stage often influence separation anxiety later in life.

  • Early Weaning: Puppies separated from their mothers or littermates too early (before 8 weeks of age) may struggle with self-soothing and independence.
  • Lack of Socialisation: Dogs that were not gradually exposed to being alone during the sensitive socialisation window (3–14 weeks old) are more likely to become overly dependent on constant human presence.
  • Rescue Dogs: Many rescue or shelter dogs, particularly those with uncertain early life conditions, are at higher risk. They may have experienced abandonment, neglect, or multiple rehoming events that foster insecurity.

Environmental and Situational Factors

Even well-adjusted dogs can develop separation issues due to changes in their environment or lifestyle.

  • Moving to a New Home: Shifting from one home to another, common in Australia’s urban rental market, can unsettle dogs and trigger anxiety.
  • Changes in Family Structure: Events such as a family member moving out, the birth of a baby, or the loss of another pet can alter a dog’s sense of stability.
  • Work Routines: Many Australian owners work long hours or commute long distances. Dogs left alone for 8+ hours daily may develop heightened sensitivity to separation.
  • Post-COVID Lifestyle Shifts: During lockdowns, dogs became accustomed to constant human presence. With many Australians now returning to office work, this sudden change has left dogs struggling to adapt.

Learned Behaviour

Dogs can also develop anxiety from learned associations.

  • Over-Attachment Reinforced: When owners give excessive attention before leaving or immediately upon returning, it can reinforce the dog’s dependence.
  • Departure Cues: Repeated signals like grabbing keys, putting on a jacket, or picking up a bag can become anxiety triggers if they always precede long absences.
  • Sudden Changes in Routine: A dog used to frequent companionship may panic when that changes abruptly (e.g., after school holidays, a change in work shifts, or when a partner starts travelling more often).

“Consistency is everything for dogs. When their world changes suddenly, they can quickly feel unsafe.” — RSPCA Behaviour Guide


Recognising the Signs of Separation Anxiety

Dogs with separation issues often display behaviours that may seem like disobedience but are actually expressions of panic and distress. Being able to identify these signs early is crucial for owners to provide the right intervention.

Behavioural Symptoms

Separation anxiety is most often revealed through a combination of destructive or disruptive behaviours. Common signs include:

  • Destructive Chewing or Scratching
    Dogs may chew furniture, claw at doors, or scratch windowsills—especially near exit points—in an attempt to escape and reunite with their owner.
  • Excessive Vocalisation
    Persistent barking, whining, or howling often begins shortly after the owner leaves and may continue for hours. This is not only stressful for the dog but can also lead to noise complaints from neighbours, particularly in apartments or strata housing.
  • Escape Attempts
    Dogs may dig under fences, push through doors, or attempt to break out of crates. In severe cases, this can result in injuries like broken teeth or scraped paws.
  • Shadowing Behaviour
    Even before being left alone, some dogs follow their owners from room to room, never allowing them out of sight. This clinginess is an early warning sign of unhealthy attachment.

Physical & Emotional Impacts

Separation anxiety doesn’t just affect behaviour—it can also impact a dog’s physical health.

  • Stress-Related Illnesses: Prolonged stress can weaken the immune system, leading to digestive issues like diarrhoea or vomiting.
  • Loss of Appetite: Dogs with severe anxiety may refuse food or water until their owner returns.
  • Self-Harm: In rare cases, dogs may lick or chew their own paws excessively, creating sores or infections.

Emotionally, separation anxiety reduces a dog’s quality of life, leaving them in a near-constant state of unease. For owners, the consequences are equally draining: damaged property, strained neighbour relationships, and the guilt of seeing their pet in distress.

“What looks like a naughty dog destroying furniture is almost always a frightened dog trying to cope.” — Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers


How Separation Issues Affect Australian Households

Separation anxiety in dogs has a ripple effect that extends beyond the pet itself. In Australia, where more families live in apartments, townhouses, and rental properties, the consequences can quickly become challenging for both owners and their communities.

Noise Complaints and Community Tensions

Dogs with separation anxiety often bark, howl, or whine for extended periods. In densely populated areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, this can lead to disputes with neighbours and formal complaints to local councils or strata committees. Some councils may even issue fines for persistent noise disturbances caused by pets.

Damage to Rental Properties

Destructive behaviours such as chewing doors, scratching floors, or attempting to escape can result in significant property damage. In the rental market, this may lead to bond deductions or even tenancy disputes, putting added financial strain on pet owners.

Surrendering Pets to Shelters

One of the most heartbreaking outcomes of unmanaged separation anxiety is surrender. According to the RSPCA, behavioural issues—particularly excessive barking and destruction—are among the leading reasons dogs are surrendered in Australia. For many families, this is not a decision made lightly, but when the situation becomes unmanageable, rehoming is sometimes seen as the only option.

Family Stress and Emotional Impact

Living with a dog suffering from separation anxiety can be emotionally exhausting. Owners often feel guilt, frustration, or helplessness, especially when traditional discipline methods fail. In some households, the stress can also create tension between family members, particularly if there are complaints from neighbours or unexpected repair costs.

Australian households, therefore, face not just the behavioural difficulties of the dog but also broader social, financial, and emotional pressures. Recognising the seriousness of the issue is the first step toward finding practical, compassionate solutions.


Training for Independence: Step-by-Step Approaches

Helping a dog overcome separation issues takes time, patience, and consistency. Training for independence is about teaching dogs that being alone is safe, predictable, and even enjoyable. Australian pet owners can use the following step-by-step approaches to reduce anxiety and build confidence in their dogs.

Building Gradual Independence

The most effective way to address separation anxiety is through gradual exposure. Instead of leaving suddenly for long hours, owners can practice short absences and slowly extend the duration.

  • Start small: Leave the dog alone for just a few minutes and return before signs of anxiety escalate.
  • Stay calm on return: Avoid over-excited greetings, which can reinforce clingy behaviour. A calm, neutral response helps the dog learn that departures and arrivals are normal.
  • Extend over time: Gradually increase absence periods from minutes to hours, always working within the dog’s comfort zone.

Desensitisation and Counterconditioning

Many dogs begin to panic at the first sign their owner is leaving. Desensitisation helps break these associations.

  • Practice departure cues: Pick up keys, put on shoes, or grab a bag without actually leaving. Repeat until these cues no longer trigger anxiety.
  • Pair with rewards: Associate leaving with something positive, such as giving a high-value chew or puzzle toy only when the owner departs.
  • Controlled repetition: Over time, the dog learns that departures predict enjoyable experiences rather than stress.

Crate Training and Safe Spaces

A safe space provides comfort and security for anxious dogs.

  • Crates and playpens: When introduced positively, crates can act as a dog’s personal den. They should never be used as punishment but rather as a cosy retreat.
  • Calm zones: Some owners prefer a specific room, furnished with a comfortable bed, toys, and access to water.
  • Familiar scents: Placing an item of clothing with the owner’s scent can help reassure the dog during absences.

Structured Routines

Dogs thrive on routine. Establishing a predictable daily schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime reduces overall anxiety. When departures and returns happen at roughly the same times each day, dogs feel more secure because they know what to expect.

Training independence requires consistency and patience. Progress is often slow, but with persistence, many dogs can move from extreme distress to calm acceptance of alone time.


Enrichment and Distraction Techniques

One of the most effective ways to reduce separation-related stress in dogs is to keep them mentally and physically engaged. Enrichment and distraction strategies not only help dogs cope with alone time but also build confidence and resilience. For Australian pet owners, these methods are especially practical in urban homes or apartments where dogs may spend longer periods indoors.

Mental Stimulation

A bored dog is far more likely to develop destructive behaviours, so mental challenges are essential.

  • Puzzle Toys: Interactive feeders, such as treat-dispensing balls or puzzle boards, require dogs to work for their food. This keeps them occupied and mentally engaged.
  • Slow Feeders: These extend mealtime, reducing boredom and providing cognitive stimulation.
  • Hide-and-Seek Games: Owners can hide small treats or toys around the house for the dog to find while they are away.

Mental stimulation can transform “alone time” into a rewarding, problem-solving experience rather than a source of panic.

Physical Exercise

A tired dog is generally a calmer dog. Physical activity before departures reduces excess energy that might otherwise fuel anxious behaviour.

  • Morning Walks or Runs: A brisk walk or jog before leaving can make a significant difference.
  • Play Sessions: Games like fetch or tug-of-war provide both exercise and bonding.
  • Agility or Training Exercises: Practicing obedience commands or agility drills stimulates both mind and body.

Exercise doesn’t have to be lengthy—15–30 minutes of focused activity before a departure can help set the tone for a relaxed day.

Pet Care Products to Assist

Several products can complement enrichment routines and ease separation anxiety:

  • Calming Beds: Orthopaedic or doughnut-shaped calming beds provide comfort and a sense of security.
  • Chew Toys: Long-lasting chews satisfy natural chewing instincts and keep dogs occupied.
  • Automatic Feeders: Timed feeders deliver meals or treats throughout the day, creating positive anticipation.
  • Interactive Cameras: Pet cameras with two-way audio allow owners to monitor and reassure their dogs remotely.

“Dogs left with enriching activities are less likely to develop destructive behaviours because their needs are being met in healthy ways.” — Australian Veterinary Association

By combining mental enrichment, physical activity, and the right supportive products, Australian dog owners can transform periods of absence into positive experiences that reduce anxiety over time.


When to Seek Professional Help

While many dogs respond well to at-home training and enrichment strategies, some cases of separation anxiety require professional intervention. If the problem persists despite consistent effort, or if the dog’s behaviour escalates to the point of causing harm or serious household disruption, it is time to seek expert support.

Trainers vs Behaviourists vs Veterinarians

Each professional plays a unique role in addressing separation issues:

  • Professional Dog Trainers
    Certified trainers can provide structured programs that teach independence, obedience, and confidence-building exercises. However, not all trainers specialise in behavioural disorders, so choosing one with experience in anxiety-related cases is critical.
  • Animal Behaviourists
    Veterinary behaviourists are specialists trained to understand the psychological roots of behavioural problems. They can create tailored treatment plans that combine training with clinical insight. In Australia, professionals accredited through organisations such as the Australian Veterinary Behaviour Interest Group (AVBIG) are particularly reliable.
  • Veterinarians
    General vets should be the first stop if physical health issues are suspected. Sometimes medical problems (like thyroid imbalances or chronic pain) can exacerbate anxiety. Vets can also refer owners to behaviourists or recommend medication when necessary.

Medication and Supplements

In severe cases, veterinary-prescribed medication can make a significant difference. These treatments are not intended as a permanent solution but as a supportive aid while training is ongoing.

  • Prescription Medications: Drugs such as fluoxetine (commonly used in veterinary behavioural medicine) may reduce anxiety enough to allow dogs to learn new coping strategies.
  • Natural Calming Aids: Options like pheromone diffusers (e.g., Adaptil), calming sprays, or herbal supplements are widely used in Australia to ease mild cases of anxiety.
  • Nutritional Support: Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids or supplemented with L-theanine may also support calmer behaviour.

“Medication doesn’t cure separation anxiety—it creates a window of opportunity for effective training to take place.” — Dr. Gabrielle Carter, Veterinary Behaviourist, Melbourne

Indicators Professional Help Is Needed

Owners should consider professional support if:

  • The dog injures itself trying to escape.
  • Property destruction is severe or ongoing.
  • Neighbour complaints are frequent.
  • Anxiety occurs even after consistent training efforts.

Professional guidance not only reduces the dog’s suffering but also helps owners feel supported and confident in managing the condition.


Case Studies from Australia

Real-life examples often illustrate how separation anxiety manifests in diverse situations and how different strategies can lead to improvement. These Australian case studies highlight both the challenges and the solutions that pet owners have successfully implemented.

Case Study 1: Bella, the Rescue Dog from Sydney

Bella, a two-year-old Border Collie cross, was adopted from a Sydney shelter. Her new family quickly noticed destructive behaviour whenever they left the house—chewed skirting boards, scratched doors, and loud howling reported by neighbours.

Trigger: Bella had likely experienced abandonment in her early life, leaving her with deep insecurity.
Intervention: The family worked with a veterinary behaviourist who recommended a combination of desensitisation training and the use of Adaptil diffusers. They also introduced puzzle feeders each morning before leaving.
Outcome: Within three months, Bella’s destructive behaviour reduced by 70%, and after six months, she was able to stay calm for up to five hours alone.

Case Study 2: Max, the Apartment Puppy in Melbourne

Max, a five-month-old Cavoodle living in a Melbourne apartment, barked constantly when his owner left for work. The building’s strata committee quickly issued noise complaints.

Trigger: Max had grown up during his owner’s work-from-home period and had never been left alone for long.
Intervention: His owner started a gradual independence routine, leaving for short periods each day and rewarding calm behaviour. They also invested in a calming bed and used an interactive pet camera to monitor his progress.
Outcome: Over two months, Max adapted to staying alone for four hours without excessive barking, easing neighbour complaints and improving household harmony.

Case Study 3: Daisy, the Older Dog in Adelaide

Daisy, a 10-year-old Labrador, developed separation anxiety after her owner changed jobs and began working longer shifts. Previously calm, Daisy began pacing, drooling excessively, and refusing food when left alone.

Trigger: Sudden lifestyle change combined with age-related insecurity.
Intervention: Her vet ruled out medical conditions and prescribed a short course of anti-anxiety medication to support training. Her owner also hired a dog walker to visit during the day and added morning exercise sessions before leaving.
Outcome: Daisy showed steady improvement within weeks. While she still displayed mild signs of stress, her overall quality of life improved, and she regained her appetite.

These stories demonstrate that separation anxiety can affect dogs of any age, breed, or background. They also show that with commitment, creativity, and professional support, Australian pet owners can significantly improve their dogs’ wellbeing.


Prevention Tips for Puppy Owners

Preventing separation issues from developing is far easier than treating them once they are deeply rooted. For Australian puppy owners, early training and careful socialisation can make all the difference in raising confident, independent dogs.

Early Independence Training

From the moment a puppy comes home, it is important to encourage small amounts of alone time.

  • Short separations: Place the puppy in a safe, comfortable space (like a crate or playpen) for a few minutes, gradually increasing duration.
  • Neutral departures and returns: Avoid fussing over the puppy when leaving or arriving, as this teaches them that absences are routine rather than dramatic events.
  • Daytime independence: Encourage puppies to rest alone, even when owners are home, instead of constantly being on someone’s lap or underfoot.

Balanced Bonding

Bonding is essential, but over-attachment can backfire. Puppies should learn that their world does not revolve solely around constant human presence.

  • Mix play and cuddles with solo enrichment (like chew toys or puzzle feeders).
  • Allow the puppy to explore independently in safe areas of the home or yard.
  • Gradually introduce the concept of “self-soothing,” where the puppy learns to settle without direct owner involvement.

Socialisation with People and Environments

Exposing puppies to diverse experiences helps them adapt more easily to change later in life.

  • Introduce them to different people, other animals, and environments (parks, quiet streets, cars).
  • Vary the length of alone time so they don’t associate departures only with long absences.
  • Enrol in puppy preschool classes offered by many Australian vets and trainers, which focus on confidence-building and early behavioural skills.

Setting Routines Early

Dogs thrive on predictability. Establishing feeding, exercise, and rest routines from puppyhood builds security. Puppies who know when to expect meals, walks, and play are less likely to develop anxiety when left alone.

“The habits you establish in the first year of a dog’s life set the foundation for their emotional resilience as adults.” — Australian Veterinary Association

By proactively teaching puppies to be confident and comfortable during short absences, owners can dramatically reduce the risk of separation anxiety developing in adulthood.


Related Products for Separation Training

While training and behavioural strategies form the foundation for managing separation anxiety, the right products can make a significant difference in helping dogs feel calmer and more secure. For Australian pet owners, investing in supportive tools can enhance both short-term relief and long-term progress.

Interactive Dog Toys and Puzzle Feeders

Mental stimulation is key for keeping dogs occupied when left alone.

  • Puzzle feeders encourage problem-solving and extend mealtime, reducing boredom.
  • Treat-dispensing toys reward independence, making alone time a positive experience.
  • Durable chew toys help redirect anxious chewing away from furniture and doors.

These products mimic natural foraging behaviours, giving dogs a sense of purpose while their owners are away.

Comfortable Calming Dog Beds

A dedicated rest area can help a dog feel safe and grounded.

A calming bed not only soothes but also creates a consistent “safe zone” associated with relaxation.

Harnesses and Leashes for Pre-Departure Exercise

Exercise before departures is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress.

  • No-pull harnesses make walks easier and more enjoyable for both dog and owner.
  • Adjustable leashes provide flexibility for quick training sessions or longer walks.

By making exercise simple and comfortable, owners are more likely to maintain a consistent routine that supports calmer alone time.

Bowls and Feeders for Scheduled Feeding

Routine is essential for anxious dogs, and structured feeding times add predictability.

  • Automatic feeders can dispense meals or treats at set intervals during the day, providing comfort and distraction.
  • Slow-feeding bowls reduce gulping and encourage calm eating, doubling as enrichment.

When paired with training, these products transform daily activities into anxiety-reducing experiences.

“Behavioural training is most effective when supported by an environment that meets a dog’s physical and emotional needs.” — Australian Dog Trainers Association

Pet owners don’t need to purchase every tool at once, but carefully choosing a few supportive products can make the training journey smoother and less stressful for both dog and owner.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long can I leave my dog alone without causing anxiety?

Most adult dogs can be left alone for 4–6 hours without distress if their needs for exercise, food, and enrichment are met. However, dogs with separation anxiety may struggle even with short absences. Puppies generally shouldn’t be left longer than 2–3 hours. Building up independence gradually is key.

Q2: Will getting a second dog solve separation anxiety?

Not always. While some dogs benefit from the companionship of another pet, others may still experience anxiety tied specifically to their human bond. Introducing another dog should never be a quick fix—it requires careful consideration, proper introductions, and an understanding that it may not address the root cause.

Q3: Can separation anxiety be completely cured?

For many dogs, separation anxiety can be significantly reduced or managed to the point where it no longer disrupts daily life. Severe cases may require ongoing management, but with consistent training, enrichment, and sometimes professional help, most dogs show marked improvement.

Q4: How do I stop my dog barking when I leave?

Identify the trigger first. If the barking is linked to separation distress, solutions include:

  • Desensitising departure cues.
  • Providing enrichment toys.
  • Ensuring adequate exercise before leaving.
  • Consulting a professional if the problem persists.
    Anti-bark collars or punishment should never be used, as they often worsen anxiety.

Q5: Are there specific breeds in Australia more prone to separation anxiety?

Yes. Breeds known for strong attachment to their owners, such as Cavoodles, Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds, may be more prone to separation issues. That said, any breed or mixed breed can develop separation anxiety depending on upbringing and environment.

Q6: What if I live in an apartment and my dog’s barking disturbs neighbours?

Apartment living can magnify the challenges of separation anxiety due to shared walls and close neighbours. Strategies include:

  • Training with short, structured departures.
  • Using white noise machines or calming music to mask outside sounds.
  • Seeking professional help early to avoid escalations and formal complaints.

Q7: Should I consider doggy daycare?

Doggy daycare can be a helpful solution, especially for high-energy breeds. However, it should complement training, not replace it. Not all dogs enjoy busy group settings, so trial visits are essential to ensure it’s a positive experience.


Conclusion

Separation anxiety in dogs is not a sign of stubbornness or poor training—it is an emotional struggle rooted in fear and insecurity. For Australian pet owners, this issue is increasingly common, especially with lifestyle shifts such as the return to office work after long periods at home. Left unaddressed, separation issues can create stress not only for the dog but also for the entire household, leading to noise complaints, property damage, and emotional strain.

The good news is that separation anxiety can be managed, and in many cases, significantly improved. By recognising the triggers, identifying the symptoms early, and committing to step-by-step training strategies, owners can help their dogs build confidence and independence. Enrichment tools, structured routines, and supportive products such as calming beds, puzzle feeders, and interactive cameras provide practical ways to ease anxiety. For more complex cases, professional guidance from trainers, behaviourists, or veterinarians ensures that tailored solutions are available.

Most importantly, overcoming separation anxiety requires patience and consistency. Progress may feel slow at times, but each small step forward strengthens the bond between dog and owner. When dogs learn that being alone is safe, they not only gain independence but also enjoy a better quality of life—calmer, happier, and healthier.

“Helping a dog overcome separation anxiety is one of the most rewarding journeys an owner can take. It’s not just about reducing anxiety; it’s about giving your dog the freedom to feel safe when you’re not there.” — Australian Veterinary Behaviourist

For Australian pet owners, addressing separation anxiety isn’t just about solving a problem—it’s about investing in a stronger, healthier, and more trusting relationship with their dogs.


 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional veterinary, behavioural, nutritional, or legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, PetCareShed does not guarantee the completeness or reliability of the content. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian, certified dog trainer, or local authority before making decisions that could affect your pet’s health, behaviour, or safety. Product recommendations are based on general suitability and should be evaluated according to your pet’s individual needs.

PetCareShed does not accept liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided in this guide.

About the author

Written by Ethen Intisar, the co-founder of PetCareShed, an Australian pet supplies store known for its thoughtful, research-backed products and content.

Ethen shares practical, research-backed insights to help pet owners make informed care decisions—supported by expert input from vets and trainers.

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