Free dog separation anxiety assessment

Does my dog have separation anxiety?

Answer four quick questions about what happens when you leave.

Answer the four questions
1-2 minutesNo signup required. Your answers are saved without your name or number; if you sign up, Leedo adds them to your dog’s profile.

Developed with the behavior experts at

CATCH Canine Trainers Academy (opens in a new tab)

Question 1 of 4

How does your dog react when you leave?

Helpful information

Signs of separation anxiety in dogs.

Separation anxiety is distress caused by separation from a person the dog is attached to. The strongest clue is a repeatable cluster of signs that begins around departure, not one behavior by itself.

  • Pacing, panting when it is not hot, trembling, drooling, or an inability to settle.
  • Persistent barking, whining, or howling that starts soon after departure.
  • House soiling despite otherwise reliable house training.
  • Destruction around doors, windows, or belongings carrying the owner’s scent.
  • Frantic escape behavior, refusal of favorite food, or self-injury in severe cases.

Reward-based treatment

What helps a dog with separation anxiety?

The goal is not to make a dog “tough it out.” Reward-based treatment teaches that being alone is safe through absences short enough to avoid panic.

  1. 1

    Observe before you assume.

    Record departures to learn when signs begin, what they look like, and when your dog settles.

  2. 2

    Keep practice easy enough.

    Start with an absence your dog can handle calmly, even if it’s only seconds, and increase gradually. If your dog becomes upset, make the next practice easier.

  3. 3

    Manage unavoidable absences.

    Use trusted people or dog-care options when possible so your dog doesn’t keep practicing panic during treatment.

  4. 4

    Reward calm behavior.

    Use food, chews, or a calm resting spot only when your dog can engage comfortably. Never punish anxiety or use painful tools.

  5. 5

    Build a support team.

    A separation-anxiety trainer can guide the daily plan. A veterinarian can rule out health causes and, for high or urgent concerns, discuss medication that may support learning.

Directories and guidance

More support and resources.

These trusted directories and educational resources are here if you want more help after your result.

Find a CATCH trainerSearch CATCH’s directory of trainers committed to positive-reinforcement methods across the U.S. and Canada.Find a veterinary behavioristSearch the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists directory for a board-certified specialist.Learn more training techniquesRead CATCH’s separation-anxiety guidance, including common myths and practical management ideas.

Common questions

Dog separation anxiety questions.

Does destructive behavior mean my dog has separation anxiety?

Not by itself. CATCH notes that boredom, under-stimulation, and incomplete training can also cause destruction. Damage around doors, windows, or an owner’s belongings is more suggestive when it appears with other distress signs soon after departure.

Can a dog have separation anxiety and still eat?

Yes. CATCH explains that many dogs with mild or moderate distress will still chew or use a food toy. Refusing food can support the picture, but eating does not rule separation anxiety out.

Should I crate a dog with separation anxiety?

Only if the dog is already comfortable and relaxed in the crate. If the dog frantically tries to escape, bites the crate, or is injured, confinement can be dangerous and a different safety plan is needed.

Will getting another dog fix separation anxiety?

Not reliably. Another animal may help a dog that dislikes being alone, but it often doesn’t help a dog that’s upset about one specific person being gone. Do not add another dog solely as treatment.

When should I ask my veterinarian about medication?

Talk with your veterinarian when distress is frequent, prolonged, escalating, preventing training, or creating a risk of injury. Medication is generally most useful as part of a behavior-modification plan, not as a replacement for one.

Sources and approach.

Reviewed by CATCH Canine Trainers Academy on

CATCH’s public guidance stresses individual observation: dogs may still eat, may not follow their owner everywhere, and may destroy things for reasons other than separation anxiety. This screen considers timing, behavior, how long it takes to settle, and whether company helps. Dangerous behavior such as escape attempts or self-injury always takes priority over the rest of the answers.

This educational screening tool cannot diagnose separation anxiety or replace an examination by a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist. Sudden behavior changes, house soiling, pain, confusion, or distress can have medical causes. If your dog is injuring themself or may escape, secure immediate safe supervision and contact your veterinarian.