Separation anxiety affects an estimated 15-20% of pet dogs and is one of the most common behavioural welfare problems. It causes genuine suffering and is frequently misunderstood or mistreated.
Canine separation anxiety represents genuine psychological suffering — dogs with separation anxiety are not being naughty but are experiencing a fear-state when their attachment figure leaves. Cortisol and heart rate measurements during owner absence confirm the anxiety is physiological, not behavioural performance. Treatment requires gradual systematic desensitisation to departures — a process taking weeks to months that requires professional guidance. Anti-anxiety medication (fluoxetine, clomipramine) prescribed by vets in combination with behaviour modification significantly improves outcomes. Owner responses that involve punishment or isolation worsen anxiety and extend recovery time. Early prevention through progressive alone-time training in puppies is the most welfare-efficient approach.