Puppy vs. Adult Dog Separation Anxiety: What I’ve Learned
Separation anxiety isn’t just a phase—it can affect dogs at any age. I’ve been through it with both a young pup and an older rescue, and while the symptoms were similar (barking, whining, the occasional destroyed slipper), the way I approached it had to be completely different.
Whether you’re dealing with a wobbly little puppy who hates being left alone or an adult dog who panics the second you grab your keys, here’s what’s worked for me—and what might help your dog feel a little more secure.
What’s the Best Way to Treat Separation Anxiety?
Honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all fix. But what helped both my dogs was a mix of training, routine, and creating a calm, comforting space.
Here’s what I swear by:
- Start small – Leave the house for 30 seconds, then build up gradually
- Create a safe space – A quiet area with their bed, a toy, and maybe your old t-shirt
- Stick to a routine – Dogs love structure. Same walk times, meal times, bedtime
- Try calming products – I’ve used natural sprays, calming treats, and the calming anti-anxiety dog bed—all helped take the edge off
- Get professional help if needed – If you’ve tried everything and your dog’s still distressed, it’s totally OK to get support from a vet or behaviourist
The biggest lesson? Be patient. It takes time, but progress happens.
Does Getting Another Dog Help Separation Anxiety?
This is a question I hear a lot—and it’s one I asked myself too. In some cases, yes, a second dog can help ease loneliness. But it’s not a magic cure.
Here’s what I found:
- If your dog’s anxious because they miss you, a second dog might not make much difference
- In some cases, the second dog also develops separation anxiety (ask me how I know…)
- Training is still the most important piece of the puzzle
So if you’re thinking of getting a second dog, make sure your current dog’s anxiety is under control first.
How I Trained My Dog Out of Separation Anxiety
I’ll be honest—this took time, and a lot of patience. But here’s what made the biggest difference:
- Start small: I began by leaving for a minute or two, then slowly increased the time as my dog got more confident
- Practice departure cues: I’d grab my keys or put my coat on without leaving, just to break the association
- Stay calm when coming and going: No big “goodbyes” or “hellos.” Just casual, relaxed energy
- Distraction is key: I used the Bacon Gnosher Dog Chew Toy and puzzle feeders to keep their brain busy
- Reward calm behaviour: I’d leave a little treat when they were settled and quiet
Slowly but surely, the meltdowns stopped. And now? They barely lift their head when I leave.
What About Puppies—Do They Grow Out of It?
Yes—and no. My puppy had it pretty rough between 8 and 14 weeks. That period, right after being separated from their litter, is tough.
The good news? With the right training and socialisation, most puppies do grow out of it. The bad news? Some carry it into adulthood if it’s not addressed early.
Here’s what I did:
- Crate training helped a lot
- I made sure being alone was never scary, just a normal part of the day
- I introduced short absences gradually (sometimes I’d just step into another room with the door closed)
If your dog’s an adult and still struggling, don’t worry—it’s not too late. It just takes a little more time and consistency.
Final Thoughts
Separation anxiety can be hard on both of you. I’ve felt the guilt, the frustration, and the “what am I doing wrong?” moments. But the truth is, it’s incredibly common—and very treatable.
With patience, the right tools, and a bit of trial and error, things do get better. Whether you’re raising a nervous pup or helping a rescue settle into a new home, you’ve got this.
Here are a few of the things that helped us most:
Wishing you calm, happy dogs and fewer chewed-up slippers.
