What dogs feel when you leave and how to ease their anxiety

Every dog owner has seen the  heartbreak in their pet’s eyes when they step out for even a moment – followed by the sheer joy upon their return.

Sadly, we can’t explain to our pets that we’ll be back soon and that there’s no need for them to keep vigil by the door.

Nevertheless, there are specific strategies you can employ to alleviate their distress when you must leave home – and it begins with proper training.

Explaining what goes through a canine’s mind during your absence, TikTok user @pawfyshop revealed: “When you leave, your dog doesn’t just ‘miss you’ – they panic like a toddler who lost their mum.

Learn how dogs experience separation anxiety, feeling panic like young children, discover tips to help your pet cope better!”

The expert recommends leaving them with a piece of your clothing so they can detect your scent while you’re gone, or providing them with an activity to focus on – such as a snuffle mat. This follows the RSPCA’s warning to owners against allowing their pets to ‘cry it out’ during their absence, describing this approach as “neurologically damaging.”

The organisation states: “Working out why your dog reacts badly to being left alone can be tricky – especially as research shows that half of dogs suffering from separation-related behaviour won’t show any signs when you’re with them.”

To help them feel more comfortable when left alone, you can provide your dog with a ‘special’ toy to keep them occupied whilst you’re away from home.

“Always make sure that your dog has exciting things to do when you’re not with them. You can give your dog a long-lasting chew, such as a stuffed Kong toy, a meat-flavoured chew or a treat ball when you plan to go out,” the statement adds.

“Make sure that they enjoy using it when you’re there. If your dog then doesn’t use it when you’re away, this may be a sign that your dog is worried when you’re out.”

Pet owners can also help their furry companion unwind during solo time by taking them for a walk before leaving the house.

The statement continues: “Try to take your dog for a walk before you go out so that they have the opportunity to go to the toilet and exercise. Return half an hour before you plan to leave and make sure they’re not hungry. You can feed them a small meal before you leave or leave a food toy – your dog will be much more inclined to relax if they’re fed.”

Nevertheless, if you’re planning to leave your pooch for more than four hours, the RSPCA suggests arranging a dog sitter – particularly if your canine isn’t accustomed to being left home alone for extended periods.

“We recommend that you don’t leave your dog alone for more than four hours; for puppies, much less. However, if your dog struggles with being alone, they may start feeling anxious within minutes of you leaving – or even before you leave,” the statement adds.

“Using a dog sitter or dog walking service means that someone can keep your dog company and take them for a walk. This is a good way of easing the stress they may feel when you’re not there.”