Separation anxiety and separation frustration are often grouped together, but emotionally they are very different experiences for dogs. Understanding the difference matters, because the way we support each one should look very different too. Separation frustration is driven by wanting access. These dogs want to follow you, join in, or reach something exciting. When they are prevented from doing so, they may vocalise, chew, or protest. However, despite their frustration, they are usually still...

Separation anxiety rarely appears overnight. For most dogs, it develops gradually, with subtle signs showing long before distress becomes obvious. These early signals are easy to overlook, especially because many of them are often described as “cute”, “clingy”, or simply part of a dog’s personality. Following you from room to room. Sitting outside the bathroom door. Becoming restless when you put shoes on or pick up your keys. Struggling to settle unless they are physically close to you....

Dogs aren’t born knowing how to cope with being alone. It’s a skill that develops gradually, shaped by genetics, early experiences, and their environment. Some dogs are more vulnerable than others. Puppies who didn’t experience gentle, gradual separation early in life may struggle later on. Rescue dogs may have experienced repeated loss, unpredictability, or confinement that makes absence feel unsafe. Genetics also play a role. Some dogs are simply more sensitive by nature. Importantly,...