Being away can feel fearful to some dogs. That is why it is vital to know how to support your dog through alone-time training. This approach is not about simply leaving them and hoping for the best. It is about building calm confidence through thoughtful steps.
Begin with Quiet Arrival and Departure
An anxious dog may start to worry long before you leave. The simple act of putting on shoes or picking up keys may trigger panic. To reduce this, practice going through departure actions at random times without actually leaving. This helps your dog learn that these cues are no longer reliable predictors of separation. Dogs are quickly able to recognise patterns in our movements so we want to perform meaningless movements at random times so your dog learns not to be stressed about things like putting your shoes on, or picking up your car keys.
Build Alone Time Slowly and Supportively
Start with very short absences e.g. just stepping into another room for a few seconds. Return calmly and only give attention when your dog is relaxed. Gradually increase the duration, ensuring each step ends successfully. This methodical process teaches your dog that alone time isn’t terrible after all.
Pair Alone Time with Positive Experiences
Create a positive association with being alone by giving your dog a favourite food puzzle or toy when you leave. Spoken cues, such as “I’ll be right back,” paired with a special treat, can also help shift the emotional tone from anxious to hopeful. You might want to save a particular high value long lasting chew for when you leave the home. Eventually your dog will be jumping for joy because you walking out the door means they get their favourite chewy
Know When to Pause and Seek Help
Progress will not always be smooth. It’s not linear. If you notice panic, trembling, or frantic behaviour even at short separations, it is a sign to slow down and possibly pause training. In such cases, professional support from a qualified trainer and veterinarian/veterinary behaviourist can provide a safer path forward. I always recommend that you start with your vet or vet behavioursist if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety.
What This Means for You and Your Dog
Training alone time is not about forcing your dog to suppress fear. It is about helping them learn that you can be away and they can still experience calmness in your absence. Together, you build confidence, resilience and peace of mind.
If your dog’s alone-time training has hit a roadblock or you’re not sure where to begin, I offer compassionate, one-to-one sessions designed to match your dog’s pace and emotional wellbeing but please also visit your veterinarian so we can work together for the best outcome for you and your dog.
Remember: how to support your dog through alone-time training is as much about your presence, even when you are not there, as it is about what steps you take. Patience, and compassionate support pave the path to separation confidence.
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Game On! Let’s Play!
Hxx
*written with the assistance of AI