Separation anxiety is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in pet dogs, affecting an estimated 14-20% of the dog population. The COVID-19 puppy boom followed by return to work patterns has created a significant welfare crisis in dog separation distress.
Dogs with separation anxiety experience genuine psychological distress, not misbehaviour. Stress hormones, heart rate, and cortisol elevate dramatically on owner departure. Dogs self-injure through chewing, door-scratching, and jumping at windows. Treatment is effective but requires consistent effort over weeks to months. Punishing separation-anxious dogs for destruction dramatically worsens the condition by adding fear to distress.