Dogs are often stereotyped as being happy-go-lucky and carefree, and many often are. But did you know that an awful lot of dogs are actually displaying signs of anxiety?

We all want to be the best dog owner and give our pups the best lives, filled with lots of love. However, despite our best efforts, a new study published in the Scientific Reports journal suggests that a huge 70% of dogs display anxiety-related behaviors, from compulsive licking to noise sensitivity to separation-related issues.

Separation anxiety is one of the most common forms of anxiety experienced by dogs. In extreme cases, it can be triggered when you leave the room, but more often it occurs when your dog’s left home alone or if you drop them off with the groomer, for example.

With noise sensitivity anxiety, the first trigger that comes to mind is probably fireworks – we know how much pets don’t like them (and here’s how to calm your dog during fireworks). But any unusual, loud, or high-pitched sounds can cause anxiety, from thunder during a storm to noises made by digital equipment.

Some dogs have social anxiety, while others can develop anxiety in older age due to cognitive changes. Some have guarding anxiety, and display aggression if someone approaches their space, food, or toys.

There are differences between sex and breed – female dogs are more likely to be fearful whereas male dogs are more likely to show aggression, for example – and it’s worth noting that a dog who displays a behavior related to anxiety may not have anxiety to the point where there’s a big impact on their daily life. However, the figures do make for worrying reading.

Dogs, like humans, can produce as much as 90% of their serotonin in their gut, and disruption to their gut microbiome can contribute to anxiety, as well as other issues like skin problems and digestive distress – here’s how to improve dog gut health for more information.

Because this can be caused by things like allergens, processed foods, and low-quality proteins, the vet-founded pet nutrition brand Omni is launching a range of gut-friendly and hypoallergenic foods. Each recipe, developed by vet Dr Guy Sandelowsky, uses novel proteins in order to reduce inflammation and support digestion, immunity, and behavior.

Read next: 5 things a trainer wishes people knew about anxious dogs

Sometimes, it can seem as though our dogs just go through life without a care in the world. However, some dogs can be more anxious than others.

There are lots of reasons why your pup might be anxious – they could be one of the dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety, experienced something traumatic before you gave them their forever home, or just be wary of unfamiliar things like new people or locations. But no matter the reason, sometimes our dogs will prefer seeking solace in one of the best calming dog beds than exploring the world.

If your dog is anxious, there are things you can try to help them build up their confidence, and expert trainer and behaviorist Renee Rhoades of R+Dogs has offered some tips in a recent Instagram post. So, let’s take a look!

1. Create a safe space: “Provide your dog with a secure sanctuary for times of stress,” says Rhoades. “It should be peaceful, snug, and restricted to trusted humans only.”

Ensure that your pooch always has the option to access this space as they please, without any restrictions.

2. Stimulate their mind: Mental stimulation is so important, whether your pup is anxious or not. But dogs who have plenty of mental stimulation tend to have lower stress levels and are often better behaved, too.

“These activities encourage your dog to problem solve, which can increase confidence,” Rhoades says.

3. Learn their language: Dogs communicate largely through their bodies. While it’s not an exact science, learning how to read dog body language and understand their signals can help you recognize and understand when they feel anxious. This way, you can respond accordingly, build trust, and in turn help reduce their anxiety.

4. Be a creature of (kind) habit: “Being consistent can reduce anxiety by predictability,” Rhoades explains. “You don’t need to do everything at an exact time, just a consistent pattern.”

By being consistent, and always being positive – try not to show any frustration! – you can help your pup improve their confidence in the long run.

5. Be a turtle: In other words, take things nice and slow. Don’t rush your dog. Anxiety in dogs can mean that they don’t respond well when they’re pushed into new or uncomfortable situations, so be patient and meet your furry friend at their pace. If they’re communicating that they’d like to slow down or stop at any point, listen to them.

And remember, as Rhoades says, “It’s important to understand that your dog’s nervousness is not a sign of weakness but a call for support from you.”

For more advice on helping your pup, here are 32 ways to support a scared or anxious pet. You might find this article useful, too: Eight reasons why your dog is anxious (and how to help them).

Dogs are social animals, and separation anxiety is likely going to be something you’ll have to manage — particularly if you get a new puppy.

However, there are some mistakes that new pet parents often make. But, on the bright side, they’re easy and simple to avoid, and you can always use some of the best dog treats to help you rectify them.

Award-winning trainer Lisa Burton of Listen Dog Training has outlined a few of them in a recent Instagram post. Let’s take a look at her advice. 

“When it comes to separation anxiety,” begins Burton, “A lot of the free advice out there is tailored toward getting your puppy used to being alone. Of course, growing calmness and confidence in our puppies when left alone is crucial, but there’s a really important step before this.”

Burton takes a look at attachment types, explaining that the relationship between puppy and parent will fall into one of them, based on factors including the puppy’s genetics and temperament (here are the 32 dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety), the pet parent’s attachment style and personality, and the security the puppy feels in this relationship. 

So, if you help your puppy feel secure, their independence should come naturally. Burton explains that even though many dog parents will have the best intentions, they inadvertently display more attachment avoidance because they think that giving into their puppy’s clinginess will make things worse. “What usually results is an anxious attachment style, and a puppy that becomes increasingly worried about separation,” she says.

To help your pup develop a secure attachment style, there are a few things to work on. Be as present and responsive as you can — of course, there will be times when you can’t give your puppy your undivided attention, but when you can it’s important to try doing so. You can’t cause separation anxiety in your dog by loving them too much.

Your goal, says Burton, is to make it so your puppy doesn’t worry about your absence, because you always come back, you always meet their needs, and you never leave them in danger.

However, it’s important to get your dog used to what she describes as micro-absences. Reinforce with high-value treats, and leave your dog for a couple of minutes while you run outside or run to the bathroom.

And, let your dog know that being away from you can be fun! Give them something high-value, like an enrichment feeder with their favourite treats, and secure it in a room away from you. This way, your dog has to leave you for a while to enjoy it, and can’t bring it into the room you’re in. 

If you’d like to know more about how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs, this article might be useful.

While most studies and conversations around separation anxiety focus on canine companions, our feline friends can also equally suffer from this condition. Many cats bond strongly with their human caregivers and can struggle when their favorite people leave them at home.

Signs of separation anxiety in cats may include things like destructive behaviors, distressed vocalizations, or urinating outside of their litterbox even when it's filled with the best cat litter around.

If your cat is exhibiting some or all of these signs, it's important to reach out to a reputable cat behaviorist for assistance. Some breeds of cats may be more prone to separation anxiety than others.

Below, we'll take a look at some cat breeds most likely to suffer from separation anxiety.

32 cat breeds most likely to suffer from separation anxiety

1. Japanese bobtail

The exact origin of the Japanese bobtail is a bit hazy, but we know they were officially recognized as a distinct breed in Japan in the 1960s. With powerful, long hind legs, and a muscular frame, the Japanese bobtail is made for jumping and climbing. Highly intelligent and playful, this breed thrives with an active family and lots of enrichment.

They often play fetch and love chasing one of the best laser toys for cats. Due to their high level of enrichment needs, this breed is not the best choice for someone who is frequently gone from home.

2. Turkish van

Breed historians generally agree the Turkish van likely originated from the regions of eastern Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and western Central Asia. Typically, this breed features a striking white, medium-length coat, sharply pointed ears, and blue or amber eyes. Some individuals have one blue eye and one amber eye. These cats love spending time with their people and are great mousers.

The Turkish van requires a lot of attention from her cat parents and loves going on adventures. To prevent separation anxiety in this breed, it’s best to spend lots of time together and include the kitty in as many activities as possible. This breed is known for acclimating well to leash walks so it may be worth investing in one of the best cat harnesses for this feline.

3. Ocicat

Originating in the U.S. in 1964 by the crossing of Abyssinian and Siamese cats, the ocicat features a slender build and wild-looking spots. They resemble miniature ocelots but have the personality of a people-oriented house cat. These cats are playful, energetic, vocal, and somewhat mischievous. They tend to bond strongly with one person in a family the most. Without consistent enrichment and social interactions, they can become distressed and destructive. These cats thrive with an active, playful family.

4. Bengal

Technically, the Bengal cat is a hybrid cross between a domestic cat (Felis catus) and the wild Asian leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis,), which is just one of the fascinating facts about Bengal cats.

Like their wild relatives, the Bengal cat features a gorgeously marbled coat, which comes in a range of colors. This breed is highly active, intelligent, and curious. They need consistent mental, physical, and social enrichment to thrive.

The Bengal is not a good option for folks who spend most of their time away from home. Bengal cat parents ideally will spend lots of time with them on indoor and outdoor adventures.

5. Norwegian Forest cat

Emerging in Scandinavia, the Norwegian Forest cat – regionally referred to as "Skogkatt" – is a gorgeous and incredibly dense-coated long-haired breed. Weighing up to 18 pounds, these kitties are hefty and sturdy. They love outdoor adventures and climbing trees. While they typically adore their family, these kitties aren’t usually lap cats. Instead, they love to play, observe wildlife, and prowl. Their fun-loving energy is just one of the reasons to love Norwegian forest cats.

Separation anxiety typically arises in these kitties when there’s a lack of stimulating activities in their environment. We recommend supplying this intelligent breed with cat trees, automated cat toys, and some of the best cat scratching posts to help keep them fulfilled.

6. LaPerm

Arising from an Oregon farm in the 1980s, the LaPerm breed resulted from a spontaneous mutation resulting in fine, luxuriously soft, curly hair. While some LaPerm kittens are born bald or with straight hair, most begin to develop their signature coat by maturity.

This breed arose from purposefully bred barn cats. As a result, they are active and curious kitties who need lots of physical and mental enrichment. When consistently left alone they can become destructive and restless. If you’ll be keeping a LaPerm as an inside cat, make sure to supply them with the best toys for indoor cats to help keep them content.

7. Selkirk rex

Originating in Montana in 1987, the Selkirk rex likely arose from a naturally occurring mutation causing wavy hair. Both long and short-haired versions of this breed exist. Unlike the Cornish and Devon rex breeds, the Selkirk rex does not produce extremely short-haired coats.

This rare cat has a laid-back temperament and affectionate personality. They love to snuggle with human family and can become quite anxious when consistently left alone. This cat is best suited for a family or individual who prefers to spend lots of time at home.

8. Somali 

Agile, graceful, and athletic, the Somali is a cross of the Abyssinian with unknown long-haired breeds. This striking cat breed likely began in Great Britain in the early 1900s from cross-breeding an imported Abyssinian cat. These cats are wonderful family pets, easily bonding with humans and other animals.

They love to play and climb. This breed doesn’t usually develop separation anxiety unless they’re the only pet in the house, so it’s a good idea to welcome the Somali into your home if you have other cat-friendly pets.

9. British Shorthair

One fun fact about British Shorthairs is that they likely arrived in England via Roman conquest around the first century AD. They’re a stocky breed with a large, round face, wide-set and rounded ears, and thick, dense fur. While the British Shorthair enjoys being around their human family, they aren’t known for being the most cuddly.

While they can develop separation anxiety, this breed does tend to do well when left alone as long as they have consistent enrichment and the ability to climb. Try incorporating some of the best cat trees into your home.

10. Siamese

The beautiful and beloved Siamese cat originated from ancient Siam, now known as Thailand. By the 19th century, this breed had become a popular house pet from East Asia to North America.

Highly affectionate and people-oriented, the Siamese can struggle with anxiety when you leave the house. In a study published in PLOS One, researchers identified Siamese cats as one of the most likely breeds to suffer from separation anxiety.

11. Burmese

The lovely Burmese cat originates from the country of Myanmar (also known as Burma). Breeding of Burmese cats began in the U.S. in 1930. This breed is known for being puppy-like in their playfulness, affection, and desire to follow their people around. They're also known for enjoying fetch and quickly learning a range of cues using positive reinforcement. Like their Siamese cousin, the Burmese cat is highly affectionate and can struggle with separation anxiety.

12. Tonkinese

Officially accepted as a unique breed by the U.S. Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1984, the lean, but muscular tonkinese originated from cross-breeding Burmese and Siamese cats in North America.

Playful, vocal, and athletic, the tonkinese is an affectionate and energetic breed best suited for active and social families. They thrive on attention and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone. These cats typically enjoy sharing their home with other kitties and can benefit from the constant company of other household pets.

13. Maine coon

Incredibly popular as an extremely outgoing and affectionate large long-haired breed, the Maine coon loves being the center of attention. They're considered one of the most affectionate cat breeds. Many guardians describe these big kitties as dog-like in their friendliness and interest in fetching toys, roughhousing, and even playing in water, the Maine coon is a classic family pet.

They typically don’t do well with extended alone time and can become destructive without consistent social, physical, and mental enrichment.

14. Ragdoll

A fun fact about ragdoll cats is that they originated in the 1960s in Riverside, California, the beautiful and delicate-looking ragdoll is known for being cuddly, gentle, and extremely sociable. They tend to get along well with other household pets and often follow their favorite people around like a shadow.

Ragdoll cats are wonderful family pets as they will generally cuddle up with other kitties, cat-friendly dogs, and respectful children. While ragdolls are definitely one of the most low energy cat breeds, they can become quite anxious without consistent affection and social bonding.

15. Persian

Most breed historians agree that the Persian cat likely originated in or near ancient Persia, now present-day Iran. This breed is well-loved for its long, luxurious, silky coat and adorably cartoon-like face. Gentle, calm, and loving, but often a bit shy, the Persian cat is well-suited for a quiet and equally gentle family, just a few reasons to love Persian cats.

They tend to bond closely with their immediate family and can be a bit reserved around strangers. Some Persian kitties can become overly cautious and insecure if consistently left alone. They tend to thrive with the assurance and support of their human caregivers.

16. Sphynx

Hairless breeds have emerged more than once throughout the history of feline domestication and may be traced back to Ancient Egypt. However, the modern sphynx breed we know today has its roots in 1960s Toronto, Canada due to a random genetic mutation that resulted in a kitten being born hairless and a breeder who decided to carefully continue this mutation into future litters.

Today, the sphynx is known for being energetic, acrobatic, and playfully mischievous. They thrive on attention and enrichment, and can quickly become distressed and destructive when consistently left alone.

17. Exotic shorthair

A result of breeding Persians and American shorthairs in the 1960s, the exotic shorthair features the rounded and short-muzzled face of a Persian cat with a silver American shorthair coat. Like Persians, the exotic shorthair is known for its gentle, docile, and slightly shy personality.

These cats typically become deeply attached to their immediate family members. They will often follow their favorite people around, although they are more mellow about being someone’s shadow than other kitties on this list, such as the Burmese.

18. Abyssinian

The sleek, graceful Abyssinian's origin is a bit of a mystery, although their breed name refers to Abyssinia (now modern-day Ethiopia). This beautiful cat is playful, curious, and athletic. They aren't known for being lap cats but rather tend to be more interested in high-energy play and light rough-housing.

Separation anxiety in these cats tends to manifest when they are lacking in consistent enrichment. Abyssinians often socialize well with other friendly pets and may benefit from having another animal buddy around when you leave the house.

19. Birman

Like their Burmese relatives, the birman cat originates from Burma/Myanmar. The birman is long-coated, and stocky, and features blue eyes, dark-colored points, and white feet. They are highly people-oriented, affectionate, and generally laid back. This breed can be a bit possessive over their people and doesn't always do well with other kitties in the home.

If you work long hours and recreate often outside the home, this breed may not be the best fit as birmans do best in homes where people are often around and included in family activities.

20. Cornish rex

Originating from a natural mutation in the Cornwall region of England in 1950, the Cornish rex is an adorably strange-looking breed. They sport delightfully large ears, extremely short wavy to curly hair, and long, lanky legs. This breed is extremely high-energy, curious, and playful.

They thrive on attention and fun brain games for cats. If left alone for extended periods, this rambunctious kitty is at risk of suffering from separation anxiety or distress caused by boredom. Cornish rexes do tend to get along well with other pets and will likely fare better with a constant canine or feline pal.

21. Bombay cat

Emerging in Louisville, Kentucky in 1958 by breeder Nikki Horner, the Bombay cat is a sleek, muscular, all-black, short-haired breed with striking, panther-like yellow eyes. Highly affectionate, curious, and moderately active, the Bombay is a wonderful family cat. They bond strongly with their people and tend to be outgoing and friendly with strangers. This breed is notably sociable and tends to struggle without consistent social enrichment.

22. Cymric

The origin of the cymric isn’t fully understood, but many researchers of the breed believe they arose from the Isle of Man, a small island in the center of the Irish Sea. Within this theory, the cats are a long-haired variation of the Manx cat. Both breeds feature stumpy tails or various lengths or no tails, and stocky builds. Sociable, playful, and moderately energetic, the cymric is an excellent family pet.

They also tend to do well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs. Highly social, they don’t fare well when routinely left on their own. These cats do best in a home with other animal companions or people who are frequently home.

23. Russian blue

Believed to have naturally originated on the Arkhangelsk Island off northern Russia, the Russian blue cat is medium-sized, graceful, and features golden-green eyes. They tend to enjoy toys but aren't particularly high-energy. While they are a wonderful family pet, this breed is known for strongly bonding to just one person. This breed isn't especially known for having separation anxiety, but when they do, it tends to specifically happen when their closely bonded person leaves.

24. Ragamuffin

Officially separated as a distinct breed from the ragdoll cat by the United Feline Organization in 1994, the ragamuffin resulted from cross-breeding ragdolls with Persians, Himalayans, and domestic longhairs. Like the ragdolls, the ragamuffins are known for their exceptionally docile, sweet, and gentle temperament. They thrive in social homes where people are regularly home. These sweet kitties also generally do well with other pets.

Bred to be highly people-oriented, ragamuffins can be prone to distress when their people aren't home. These kitties adore being with their people and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone. They do best in households in which someone’s often home.

25. Devon rex

Like the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex originated in England in 1960 from a suspected naturally occurring mutation resulting in their short but curly coat. These cats have large, pointed ears, a sleek and athletic build, and pronounced cheekbones.

They tend to be quite playful and active, and some consider them one of the most high energy cat breeds. Without consistent social, mental, and physical enrichment, these kitties can become distressed and destructive from boredom. Keeping some of the best automated cat toys on hand can help keep these high-energy cats content when you’re not home.

26. Himalayan

The lovely Himalayan cat likely arose in the U.S. in the 1930s from the careful crossing of Siamese and Persian cats. The goal of this crossing was to create a cat with the large build and coat length of a Persian and the markings, stunning blue eye color, and coat color of a Siamese. These gentle giants of the cat world are affectionate and highly people-oriented.

They tend to love snuggling and hanging out near their favorite people curled up in one of the best cat beds. They enjoy a quiet lifestyle and are excellent cats for folks who work from home since they don’t tend to be demanding or insist on lots of play. Since they can be prone to separation anxiety, living with someone who works from home is also a great setup for this affectionate breed.

27. Chartreux

Considered by many to be the national cat of France, the chartreux likely entered the country in the early 19th century by way of traders from Syria or Iran. Since then, French breeders have become enamored with this beautiful blue-gray cat. Many guardians of this breed describe them as thoughtful, sweet, and moderately playful.

They tend to be observant and enjoy watching birds and woodland critters from the window. This level-headed cat isn’t known for developing severe separation anxiety, but they do often bond closely with their family and do best with consistent social interaction.

28. American shorthair

The American Shorthair likely descended from European short-haired breeds that were excellent farm cats and prolific mousers. Muscular, agile, and curious, these kitties enjoy cat-friendly adventures and enrichment with their family. They may also enjoy going on walks. Just make sure to slowly acclimate them to wearing a harness by using small steps and creating positive associations by using some of the best kitten treats.

These cats love being part of the family, so long absences can cause distress. They do tend to love watching wildlife from windows, so you might want to try leaving some curtains open when you’re gone so they can be more entertained.

29. Balinese

Also known as the long-haired Siamese, the Balinese cat features Siamese point markings and eye coloration. Despite their name, these kitties did not originate in Bali. Instead, U.S. breeders created them in the 1940s, likely by crossing Siamese cats with stocky long-haired breeds like Persians. These stunning cats are known for their intelligence, curious nature, and playfulness. They’re also typically quite vocal and will readily let you know when they want attention. When left alone for too long they can develop anxiety.

30. Scottish fold

Arising in Scotland in 1961 from a spontaneous mutation, the Scottish fold features folded ears that give this kitty’s face a distinctly round appearance. These cats are known for bonding closely with their family and getting along well with other pets, including friendly dogs.

They’re less prone to developing separation anxiety when they have other animal companions in the home to bond and socialize with. When left entirely alone for many hours per day, this breed often becomes destructive from stress.

31. Shelter kitties

While not a specific breed, shelter cats often bond strongly with the person who rescues them, although some individuals may take a long time to trust their adopter. Some shelter cats have endured immense trauma or haven’t had adequate enrichment and social bonding throughout their life and tend to need additional support.

While some shelter kitties are aloof, others don’t fare well when left alone for many hours a day. Consistent, gentle social interaction can help these cats feel safer and more comfortable in their post-shelter lives.

32. Siberian

The descendant of domesticated and wild Russian forest cats, the Siberian cat is one of the most ancient cat breeds. Some breed historians believe them to be the ancestors of all modern long-haired house cats. This stunning cat features a luxurious and dense coat that comes in a range of colors. They are quite rugged and many enjoy outdoor activities, including playing in water.

They’re known for being friendly and outgoing with pets, their human family, and strangers. These cats thrive when they are an active part of their family and can become destructive without consistent social engagement and enrichment.

Some dogs whine, cry, or bark when you leave them home alone, while others turn destructive and take it out on your soft furnishings. Some drool, others pace, but whatever the manifestation of their distress, breeds with separation anxiety need careful consideration and management.

Good training, socialization, and providing mental and physical stimulation can help prevent or reduce separation anxiety in dogs. Additionally, individual temperament, early experiences, and the owner’s lifestyle play significant roles in a dog’s behavior.

For example, being born as the only puppy in a litter can cause issues when the dog is removed from its mother if there are no other dogs in its new home. If a traumatic event such as a thunderstorm happens when the owner is absent, this can cause separation anxiety as the dog associates being alone, with no one to reassure them, with terrifying events. And some dogs simply never settle in the unfamiliar environment of boarding kennels.

As separation anxiety and general neediness are often related to nurture rather than nature, it’s tricky pinning down in which precise breeds it’s most prevalent. Individual dogs within a breed may vary widely in their need for attention and companionship. However, some breeds and cross-breeds are generally known for being more social and affectionate dogs, often seeking close bonds with their owners. These may be associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing separation anxiety, as they look to their human for reassurance – so when that person is absent, this gives rise to anxiety.

Likewise, some dogs with very high energy demands may be easily bored or frustrated by being left home alone.

Let’s take a look at some breeds that may be more prone to separation anxiety – remembering that each individual dog and its life experiences should be taken case by case. It’s worth saying that no adult dog should be left alone regularly for long periods (more than four hours) – and puppies much less. But if they are nervous and stressed about you leaving the house for short errands, this is a sign of a more serious problem for the wellbeing and health of your pet, your relationship with neighbors, the state of your home and overall stress levels.

Dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety

1. Cockapoo

Often considered a “clingy” dog, the Cockapoo is nevertheless an exceptionally popular cross-breed. They have many great values, such as a low-shedding coat, intelligence and are full of love and energy. However as a very sociable, friendly dog, they tend to like having someone around. Couple that with their high intelligence, which leads to frustration if they are not occupied, and it’s easy to see why they might be prone to whining when alone.

2. Golden retriever

This extremely popular breed is naturally affectionate and loyal and forms strong bonds with its owner. This means that some golden retrievers can struggle if they are left alone for long periods as they are wondering where their “other half” has gone.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Bred to be a companion dog and spend most of its time with humans means that Cavvies typically don’t react well to being left alone for long periods. The Cavalier King Charles is also one of the more naturally anxious breeds, so can be prone to barking and other nervous habits.

4. Cocker Spaniel

There are so many things to love about Cocker Spaniels, but this devoted family pet is known to be prone to separation anxiety if left alone. Because they are naturally such a friendly, rewarding dog in response to people’s attention, cocker spaniels seem to feel aggrieved when they don’t get enough of it.

5. Bichon Frise

Bred to be a companion dog, the bichon frise thrives when they are with humans, as intended in their breeding. They can quickly become bored and suffer separation anxiety if left to fend for themselves for too long.

6. Dalmatian

This spotted breed may be strong and delightful in company, but Dalmatians typically hate being left alone. They are very people-oriented and want you by their side. When you’ve gone, they find this a stressful experience. They may resort to destruction or even try to escape to find you (and as they are a big dog that can jump high, make sure your fences are more than adequate).

7. Dachshund

Dachshunds are not a particularly anxious breed, but they tend to resort to their big-dog bark when they are anxious about being left alone. This is particularly the case in those who have become over-attached to their owners or had a lack of socialization.

8. Chihuahua

The tiny Chihuahua is an ideal breed for dog lovers living in an apartment, but not if they are going to be left alone as separation anxiety is common. They might be perfectly behaved when their human is around but tend to resort to howling, whining and destructive behaviour when they feel lonely.

9. Vizsla

Nicknamed the “velcro dog” because of their propensity to stick close to their owner, these beautiful hunting dogs were born and bred to hunt alongside people. Vizslas love to work and love to be with humans. Left alone, with nothing to do, often leads to anxiety.

10. Maltese

This loving family dog has been bred as a companion, and loves to be surrounded by people 24/7. Because they value attention and closeness to their humans, they can be anxious when left all alone, and let the neighbors know about their misery by whining the house down.

11. German Shepherd

This noble and imposing breed is a softie inside. The German Shepherd needs a physically and mentally stimulating environment, and as a brilliantly trainable and intelligent working dog, they form strong bonds with their owners. However, this means they can be prone to distress if they are left alone, or not adequately exercised and stimulated.

12. Poodle

A highly intelligent breed, the poodle is often said to be more keen on humans than other dogs. Blessed with a gentle temperament and bred to be a companion dog, they crave attention and human company. Plus, with their curly coat, they are used to spending plenty of time being groomed. When they don’t get that me-time, they can get quite distressed.

13. Border Collie

Big brains have their downsides. The Border Collie consistently ranks as the most intelligent dog, but this means they are more likely than other breeds to become bored when they have no stimulation. So leaving them alone can lead to separation anxiety and destructive behavior as they look for ways to amuse themselves.

14. Jack Russell Terrier

These feisty little terriers have high energy levels, and require masses of entertainment and plenty of exercise if they are not to get bored and start seeking their own forms of amusement. Jack Russells need a human around to engage them and keep them out of mischief.

15. Boxer

Boxers thrive on human company, so if they are alone or get bored, they can develop problematic habits such as chewing furniture and nuisance barking.

This is a breed that is prone to claustrophobia, so make sure you give your boxer plenty of space so that the don't feel confined. While on the flip side, not having so much room that he paces around the whole house looking for his humans.

16. Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd Dog is very active breed that was created to work all day long under the hot Australian sun. If they’re not busy, they’re bored – which leads to problematic habits when left alone doing nothing.

17. Beagle

A hunting dog that makes a brilliant family pet. However, due to being bred as a pack dog who is superbly loyal to his human friends, the beagle doesn’t always cope well with long periods of isolation and can feel stressed and respond with anxiety.

18. Pomeranian

Pomeranians were bred to be companion dogs, which makes them more likely to suffer from separation anxiety than some other breeds, as they relish human company.

19. Shetland Sheepdog

In common with many working breeds, Shetland Sheepdogs are highly social creatures and do not enjoy being left alone. Additionally, they require plenty of daily physical activity, so if they are frustrated and bored, this may trigger stress at being left to fend for themselves.

“Shelties” tend to form strong bonds with their owners, so strangers may also make them feel anxious, making it complicated for dog-walkers or neighbours to pop round to help out.

20. Great Dane

Great Danes were bred to be both loyal and loving, which leads them to form strong bonds with their owners. This means that when the owner is out, they feel nervous and agitated. What may be acceptable in a small breed can be very problematic with a large breed like the Great Dane, because of the amount of destruction they can do thanks to their size.

21. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers may look like a super confident dog that can take on the world, but they’re just as likely to suffer from separation anxiety as other breeds intended to be companion dogs.

Boston Terriers may be more likely to be inadvertently nurtured to struggle with loneliness as they are an ideal apartment dog, which means they are more likely to have just one owner, and no other dogs for company. A risk factor for developing separation anxiety is living in a home with a single human and no other animals.

22. Havanese

These delightful companion animals do not like to be left alone, as the Havanese loves to be close to their human family.

23. Pug

Pugs are celebrated for the bond they form with their humans, but they are equally more likely to suffer separation anxiety when their owners are out if not managed appropriately from a young age. This little dog loves to be your friend, craves attention and time – and if you can’t give it, they aren’t happy.

24. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are so devoted to their owners. They’re so excited for you to return home to greet you with loving kisses – but what happens when you are out? Because Frenchies are such “people-dogs”, it is inevitable that they don’t handle long absences too well.

25. Siberian Husky

A hardworking dog with very high physical energy demands, the Siberian Husky doesn’t handle being left alone with nothing to do – particularly if their energy needs for the day have not been met. Furthermore, they have been bred as a pack animal, so isolation is hard for them to cope with.

26. Labradoodle

The Labradoodle is a popular cross-breed (Labrador x Poodle) combining two breeds that are highly sociable and form strong bonds with their human families. They tend to require firm early training to avoid destructive behavior and separation anxiety.

27. Yorkshire Terrier

These adorable terriers are known for forming strong attachments with their owners, which means that any separation can cause stress and anxiety. Yorkshire Terriers may look cute, but they’re also fragile, protective and complex characters who require careful management to give them confidence.

28. Miniature Schnauzer

Mini schnauzers thrive on human company and are happiest when they have people around. Their naturally extroverted and intelligent personality can work the other way when they are left alone for long periods without adequate training.

29. German Shorthaired Pointer

This magnificent breed was bred to hunt alongside humans. They want to work hard, with human at their side. Without plenty of activity, including physical and mental stimulation, they can whine and resort to destructive behaviour out of anxiety.

30. Whippet 

Whippets dislike being left by themselves – or anywhere without their owner, with whom they naturally form a strong attachment. Despite the fact that they are quiet and peaceful dogs, they can get stressed very quickly when left alone, and are best kept at a home where someone can be around all day long.

31. Italian Greyhound 

Italian Greyhounds are more likely to suffer separation anxiety than their larger cousins, the Greyhound. They are more of a natural companion dog, have a tendency to be clingy and need a great deal of companionship.

32. Pekingese

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral issue in Pekingese dogs, who ideally would have someone around all day long to keep them company. They were bred to be companions, and their naturally loving nature towards their family means they don’t respond well to being left alone for long periods.

Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the Instagram post cited below.

Something dogs can often struggle with is separation anxiety. It’s understandable – dogs are sociable animals, and don’t like being away from their favorite people for too long. 

But, sometimes you’ll have to be away from your pup. Whether you’re going out to meet a friend, or you’ve got a work meeting you just can’t miss, sooner or later you’ll probably have to leave your furry friend home alone for a little while. 

It can be tempting to reach for the best dog treats before you go, but there are plenty of other ways you can keep your dog content and help them with separation anxiety. 

The certified dog behavior coaches at the Calm Canine Academy have explained what you can try in a new Instagram post. 

They explain that dogs can become suspicious of food when left alone with it, and some pups who struggle with separation anxiety might actually be panicking too much to eat. 

As the Academy says, “Separation anxiety is an actual panic disorder. Dogs who suffer from SA are likely in severe states of panic. In many cases, snacks are the last thing on their mind.”

And in many cases, food just simply isn’t effective, and doesn’t help with counter-conditioning your pup. 

Your dog wants you to come back – they don’t want food, and it doesn’t make them feel better, or soften the blow of you not being there. (Here are 32 ways to keep your pet entertained when you’re not there, just in case you might need them!)

Food can mask body language, too. “Some dogs will eat even when they are over threshold,” the Academy says. “In these cases the dog eating can mask their feelings and lead to us pushing too far in training sessions, ultimately making things worse.”

When it comes to how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs, desensitization is best. 

What you want to do is gradually expose your dog to time alone – without food as a distraction. Over the course of many months, gradually get your dog used to spending seconds, minutes, and then hours alone, with your dog fully relaxed. 

And just how long can you leave a dog alone? If you have an adult dog, many organizations recommend not leaving them alone for longer than four to six hours on a regular basis, but it can vary from dog to dog, based on their own individual needs. 

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral condition in dogs that results in a pup becoming overly distressed when separated from the people that they love.

You may find your dog experiences anxiety only when you leave the house or it may be that even being in a different room from you is challenging for your pup.

Anxiety in dogs can be difficult to deal with and can leave you feeling trapped in your own home. 

However, learning how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs is possible and according to certified trainer and behaviorist Nikki Mather, it all comes down to avoiding these five mistakes...

1. Letting them cry it out: "It is a common misconception that puppies cannot have separation anxiety," explains Mather "Anxiety-related behaviors in puppies can be mistaken for ‘normal puppy behaviour’, and often young dogs are left to cry it out. This can sometimes exacerbate the problem, resulting in adult dogs with SA."

2. Using food: "For some dogs that are completely over-threshold when left alone, food will not matter. For those dogs that engage with food until it’s gone, we have only prolonged the inevitable problem behavior."

3. Getting a second dog: "On rare occasions this has been shown to be successful, typically if a dog has recently lost another companion dog," says Mather. "Generally however, a second dog will not ‘cure’ your dog’s separation anxiety."

4. Using confinement: "Crates and other types of confinement only contain problem behaviors, preventing your dog from soiling indoors/destruction etc," Mather explains. "They do not work to change your dog’s emotion by helping them to feel better about being home alone. With some dogs, we see learned helplessness."

5. Just ignoring them: "Ignoring your dog when you leave/return will not miraculously make them feel better about you leaving."

According to Mather, "separation anxiety is driven by EMOTION, and takes a systematic training process to help your dog to feel better (and safer) when left home alone."

It's important to remember that the above tips are one trainer's thoughts on how to deal with this issue and taking into account your own dog's unique needs will be key.

If you're currently struggling with your dog's separation anxiety and feel that you and your pup would benefit from some extra support, we recommend reaching out to a qualified trainer. 

The post-holiday period can be a difficult time for our pets as they once again find themselves having to adjust to not having their humans around 24/7. After spending so much time together, it’s natural for our canine companions to wind up with a case of the ‘doggywobbles’ as we return to the office and they’re left to spend large chunks of their day alone. 

Having their parents around all day, every day is a real luxury for our pups who enjoy nothing more than lazy mornings spent chowing down on the best dog food, long afternoon walkies, and plenty of time hanging out with the people they love. 

But, unfortunately, as the world begins to return to some form of normalcy post-pandemic and many of us head back to work after the festive season, our four-pawed pals need to be able to spend time alone without experiencing bucketloads of stress or anxiety. 

If you have a dog who destroys items around the house in your absence, who howls or barks, shakes or trembles, defecates or urinates, or just generally struggles with being apart from you, we understand how distressing this can be. Separation anxiety in dogs is extremely common and thankfully there’s plenty of help available, so you don’t have to struggle alone.

Expert canine behaviorist and trainer, Adem Fehmi, has come to the rescue on this topic with six tips that you can use to help support your nervous pal as you begin the post-holiday transition from your home back to the office.

1. Exercise your dog before leaving them

“Effectively exercising your dog will help drain some of your dog’s energy, and they will more likely settle and rest after when you’re out,” explains Fehmi. “Similar to the benefits exercise have on humans, exercise has a positive effect on the mental wellbeing of our dogs and helps keep them calmer.”

While Fehmi is a strong advocate for regular exercise, he’s quick to point out that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach and understanding your dog’s unique needs is the key to success.

“It’s important to remember that long walks are not suitable for all breeds or ages. In addition, a lengthy stroll might not tire a very high-energy dog if they have a lot of stamina. So, it is important to tailor your exercise sessions to your individual dog and their life stage,” he says.

“Young puppies might benefit from exploring a new area of the garden for example, whilst a high-energy adult dog may like to play fetch during their walk. An older dog may need more mental rather than physical stimulation due to aging joints and ailments such as arthritis.”

2. Give your dog something to do while they’re alone

As you probably already know, an occupied dog is a happy dog, so making sure your pup has plenty of things to amuse themselves with while you’re gone is hugely important when it comes to alleviating anxiety and soothing stress.

“The quicker your dog gets bored when left alone, the sooner they may start to feel anxious about you being away,” explains Fehmi. “Giving them an activity to do will keep their mind occupied and act as a positive reinforcer for being left alone, because they get to do something fun!

Food dispensing toys are perfect as an activity. Start with something easy so your dog’s interest builds then, once they become an expert, you can up the challenge, so it takes them longer. For the expert ‘gamer pup’, you can even freeze some moist food in some types of rubber food dispensing toys to ensure they last a little longer.”

Check out our guide to the best dog puzzle toys for some of our favorite options.

3. Create a calm environment

While it may sound silly, playing soft or classical music for your dog while you’re out and about can soothe them in much the same way that it soothes us. Music is also a great way of drowning out any external noises outside your home that your dog may find distressing.

4. Create comfortable spaces

Invest in one of the best dog beds and use this to create a particular space in the home that your pup knows is a calm and inviting place just for them. “This should be trained from a young age, that this is a safe space that is entirely theirs with all their favorite things there too,” Fehmi advises. “This is a great place to leave their toys or treats when you leave, to distract them from your departure.”

5. Be calm when you return home to your dog

“Although it’s tempting to make a huge fuss of our dogs when we return, this can make us leaving again a bigger deal than it necessarily needs to be,” explains Fehmi. “We want our dogs to learn that us coming and going throughout the day is normal and not to be looked forward to or feared.” When you return home at the end of the day, keep your entrance and greeting calm and wait for your dog to settle before properly engaging with them. 

6. Consider a dog sitter

“If you’re away consistently for long periods of the day, another consideration is to hire a dog sitter to entertain whilst you’re gone,” Fehmi suggests. “Dogs can easily become susceptible to changes in scenery, so keeping them at home where they’re comfortable with a regular sitter will calm them; rather than kennels which may cause further stress (if they’re not used to this environment!).”

Separation anxiety can be incredibly challenging, both for your dog and also for you as a pet parent, but you don’t have to struggle with this issue alone. If you try Fehmi’s tips and find your pup is still experiencing the ‘doggywobbles’ when they’re forced to be away from you, we recommend you seek the guidance of a professional dog trainer, who will be able to give you and your pup some 1:1 support. 

Enjoyed this article and looking for more great canine content? See what happened when one owner tried a 45-minute 'sniffari' to tire their dog out.

What is separation anxiety in dogs? If you’ve noticed your pet panting, pacing, and vocalizing excessively when you leave the room, there’s a good chance they’re experiencing it. Other signs can include trembling, destructive behavior, and toileting in inappropriate places.

When it comes to preventing separation anxiety, gradual practice is key, and tools like the best pet cameras can help you monitor their progress along the way. While we’d love to take our furry friends everywhere we go, that’s not always realistic – so learning to be alone is a crucial skill for your dog.

Below, expert vets Dr Racine and Dr MacMillan explain the causes of separation anxiety, along with their top tips for reducing signs and helping your dog feel confident on their own. This condition can be challenging to overcome, but with the right steps, it can be possible for most dogs.

Signs of separation anxiety in dogs 

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral condition in dogs. Dogs with separation anxiety become distressed when separated from the people they are attached to – typically, their owners.

Some dogs may only become distressed when their owners leave the house, while others may show symptoms of separation anxiety even if their owner is just in another room.

Symptoms of separation anxiety can range from mild to severe and can include signs such as:

• Panting
• Pacing
• Trembling
• Excessive vocalization
• Destructive behavior
• Attempts to escape
• Inappropriate urination or defecation

We don’t know exactly why some dogs develop separation anxiety when others don’t. What we do know is that separation anxiety can be extremely distressing for both the dog and their family.

How to treat separation anxiety in dogs

Here are some ways you can help reduce your dog’s separation anxiety to make things easier for both of you!

1. Improve your dog’s confidence

Dogs with separation anxiety often have anxiety in other areas of their lives as well. You can help reduce your dog’s anxiety by improving your dog’s confidence in life.

One of the best ways to do this is to make life as predictable as possible for your dog. Stick to a daily routine, so your dog always knows what’s coming next. Minimize loud noises and unpredictable movements to avoid startling your dog. And always give your dog a safe space, such as his or her own crate or bed, that he or she can retreat to for quiet and solitude when needed.

Another way to improve your dog’s confidence is by using the Nothing In Life Is Free (NILIF) training program. This training methodology asks your dog to perform a task prior to receiving anything positive, following a simple command-response-reward pattern.

This can be as simple as asking your dog to sit before putting down the food bowl or opening the door to go outside. This type of training not only improves predictability for your dog, but also teaches him or her that life has rules that must be followed in order to receive good things. T

his also builds your dog’s confidence by providing him or her with some voluntary control over the interaction. You can learn more about NILIF training on the San Francisco SPCA website.

Another great training tool is Dr. Karen Overall’s Protocol for Relaxation. This step-by-step guide teaches your dog how to be confident away from you. By the end of the protocol you should be able to send your dog to his or her “place” – such as a mat or crate – and have him or her settle down and relax on command.

This is a great tool to use for dogs that are anxious or overexcited when you are getting ready to leave, or for any dog that needs to be reminded to settle down once in a while!

2. Give your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation

Much of separation anxiety occurs in the first 30 minutes after you leave the house, so keeping your dog mentally stimulated during this time is a must. If you can keep your dog busy and distracted while you’re away, he or she will be less likely to tear up the furniture while you’re gone!

First, try exercising your dog right before you leave with a good long walk or a rousing game of fetch. A dog that is tired and happy is much less likely to feel anxious while you’re away.

Also provide your dog with mentally stimulating toys to keep him or her busy, such as puzzle toys or a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter (like this one from Amazon). This will give your dog something to work on after you leave and should hopefully limit your dog’s desire to escape and destroy.

3. Desensitize your dog to your absence

Another training option is to use is a technique called desensitization. Desensitization means gradually getting your dog used to your absence so that he or she no longer reacts to it.

This process must happen very slowly and can be tedious. But when performed correctly under the supervision of a positive reinforcement based dog trainer, desensitization can be a very effective tool for combating separation anxiety.

You’ll start by leaving your dog alone for very short periods of time – just a few minutes at most to start – and gradually build up to longer and longer absences. The goal is to stay under your dog’s threshold so he or she never becomes anxious during the process, and to reward him or her for calm behavior throughout the training process. Over time, your dog will learn that being alone isn’t so scary after all!

You can also help reduce separation anxiety by keeping your comings and goings as calm as possible. Do not make a big deal out of saying goodbye to your dog when you leave – this will only ramp up his or her anxiety! Instead, calmly and quietly collect your belongings and leave.

When you return, ignore your dog for a few minutes after you arrive. Do not allow your dog to jump all over you or get overexcited. Wait until you’ve put your things away and gotten yourself settled before you calmly and quietly greet your dog. This will teach your dog that your comings and goings are no big deal and nothing to get upset about.

What is the root cause of separation anxiety in dogs?

According to Dr MacMillan, these are the main causes of separation anxiety in dogs:

• Lack of training as a puppy
• Previous traumatic experiences, like abandonment
• Sudden changes in their daily routine, like a house move or lack of exercise

She explains: "In my experience, separation anxiety is most common in dogs that have never been taught how to feel content in their own company. Training your dog to be left at home for short periods should start from an early age. Dogs need to learn to feel confident and relaxed about being by themselves.

"Even if you retired or work from home it is not practical for your dog to be with you 24 hours a day – pet dogs can’t enter most grocery stores, hospitals, or hairdressers with you. Therefore, you must teach them that everything will be OK if you need to leave them sometimes, otherwise they could become distressed when it happens.

"So, when you get a new puppy, as adorable as they are, don’t forget to include some time apart in your training. Gradually increase your pup's time on their own and monitor them for signs of stress."

Sometimes, the best way to cope with separation anxiety is to avoid it entirely. Taking your dog to a doggie daycare or having a dog walker stop by the house can be the best ways to combat separation anxiety in your dog. If your dog’s separation anxiety persists, talk to your veterinarian for additional options.

Read next: Signs your dog is stressed and Things I wish people knew about aggressive and anxious dogs

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.