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What can I do to calm my dog's separation anxiety when I'm away?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Plott | Male | neutered

Ferdinand has separation anxiety when ever I have to leave even though he has my brother to watch him. We are planning on getting another dog which might help but are there other ways to help him calm down whenever I leave?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on June 12th, 2017

Poor Ferdinand! He just loves you sooo much! You can go online and try a calming collar. If this doesn't work then you can try and anti-inside he medicine that can be a prescribed by your veterinarian. I have had really good success with the anti-anxiety medicine and it does not change their personality.

Below is a good resource for more information on separation anxiety. I hope he starts to do better!
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3144

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Slowly acclimate Ferdinand to your absence. Prepare to leave the house several times during the day and night. Leave sometimes and other times stay. Do not make a big deal about leaving or returning. Initially, step outside for a minute or two then walk back inside. Ignore him completely for 15 minutes or until he calms down each time you return. Gradually increase the length of your absence. Provide special toys or treats to be used only when you leave. Use praise and small rewards as he progresses. The use of pheromone products, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP Diffuser, may also help to ease any anxiety. If he displays destructive behaviors in your absence, consider a consult and exam with your veterinarian as well as with a certified veterinary behaviorist or trainer. A combination of medication and behavior modification may be required in this situation.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 23rd, 2017
This can be a manageable condition. Slowly acclimate your dog to your absence. Prepare to leave the house several times during the day and night. Leave sometimes and other times stay. Do not make a big deal about leaving or returning. Initially, step outside for a minute or two then walk back inside. Ignore him/her for 15 minutes or until he/she calms down each time you return. Gradually increase the length of your absence. Provide special toys or treats to be used only when you leave. Use praise and small rewards as he/she progresses. The use of pheromone collars or sprays, such as the DAP diffuser or Adaptil collar, may help to ease any anxiety. Consider an exam your vet as well as an evaluation with a veterinary behaviorist or trainer. A combination of medication and behavior modification may be required in severe cases.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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