Separation Anxiety and Body Language

During an initial consultation, it is common to explore why a dog may appear unsettled when left behind a baby gate, even if their guardian believes the dog is content there.

Many dogs show subtle signs of discomfort when their guardian leaves, such as yawning, lip licking, panting lightly or mouthing at barriers. Guardians often assume their dog is calm if there is no barking, howling, toileting or destruction, but in reality anxiety often begins well before these behaviours appear.

It is not unusual for guardians to be unaware of these earlier stages of anxiety. Unless they have recorded their dog while alone, they may only recognise the three most obvious signs: vocalisation, destruction and elimination. Even when footage has been reviewed, the more delicate body language cues can easily be overlooked. Recognising these early signals is important, and with support, every guardian can learn to do so.

Dog trainers vs dog guardians

Professionals in training and behaviour often spend years observing canine body language and become skilled in recognising subtle shifts. Guardians, however, do not always share this experience. They may miss details that trainers pick up quickly, simply because they do not have the same background of reviewing video or working with a variety of dogs.

Trainers can play a vital role in bridging this gap. Guardians do not need to master every possible anxiety signal in every breed. What matters is that they learn the signs specific to their own dog, and at what point those signs indicate that the dog is approaching their separation anxiety threshold.

By observing carefully, trainers can highlight these signals and explain exactly what is happening. Yawning, a furrowed brow, a tight mouth or wide eyes may all provide valuable information. Identifying these observable and measurable behaviours allows the dog’s threshold to be defined more clearly. Guardians are well-placed to learn this, since they live closely with their dog and notice changes daily. Trainers can support them to become confident in interpreting these cues so that training protocols can be followed more effectively.

What the Tech?

There are many tools available to assist trainers in helping guardians read their dog’s body language. Although in-person sessions are often preferred for other issues, separation anxiety lends itself particularly well to online coaching. Observing a dog in their home environment, without the added influence of a visiting trainer, provides a far more accurate picture of how they truly respond to absence.

Video communication platforms such as Zoom, Teams or Meet can be effective, while doggy cams for at home are widely available. The key is to view the dog without disrupting the natural routine, ensuring the information gathered is reliable.

Supporting guardians to recognise their dog’s early anxiety signals allows training to progress at the right pace. The balance lies in moving forward steadily while respecting the dog’s individual comfort levels.

When guardians become skilled at reading their dog’s body language, the process becomes smoother and more rewarding for everyone involved – trainer, guardian and, most importantly, the dog.

All the best, Victoria