How to Manage Separation Anxiety in Dogs During the Holidays?

Does your dog suffer from separation anxiety? The holidays are fun and exciting, but they can also be stressful, especially for dogs with separation anxiety. Some pet owners will be able to relate to this–the sad puppy dog eyes, whining, and pacing about when you’re preparing to leave the house. Sadly, many pets are left alone for extended periods because of holiday shopping, Christmas parties, and long vacations. Even more sadly, not all pet parents know how to cope. 

Should you hold off your holiday plans to stay home with your anxious pup? We know many of you would gladly say yes to staying at home and rewatching your favorite Christmas movies with your best friend. But sometimes, going out and traveling can’t be helped! Fortunately, there are effective ways you can help your dog overcome separation anxiety when this happens.

Recognizing Stress and Anxiety in Your Dog

How do you know if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety? PetMD warns that separation anxiety can cause severe stress and emotional trauma, which also leads to costly destructive behavior. Recognize these warning signals to help your pet:

• Panting or drooling for no reason
• Restlessness 
• Excessive aggression or barking 
• Loss of appetite 
• Excessive clinginess
• House soiling
• Eating poop (coprophagia) 
• Destructive behavior
• Unusual body language (ears back, tail tucked, or eyes wide and anxious) 

How to Create a Calm Environment for a Dog With Separation Anxiety

Employ trusted pet sitting or pet boarding services

If you’ll be away for a vacation, hire a reliable pet sitter or put your dog in a trusted pet boarding facility. We’d like to emphasize that these services should be with people and places your dog is already comfortable with. Leaving them with strangers will likely heighten their anxiety. A familiar face can keep your dog company, help them stick to their routine, and provide them with some extra TLC while you’re busy with holiday festivities. Plus, it’s a win for you knowing your dog is in good hands and not left stressing about your absence.

Designate a safe space

Find a quiet, comfy corner in your home where your dog can escape. Bonus points if it’s near a window with a good view (dogs love to keep an eye on things). To make their space more comfortable, use Happy Life Pet Home Cleanser. Its natural ingredients can help keep a pet-friendly home even while you’re away.

Provide comforting background noise

If your dog seems anxious when left alone, try putting on some YouTube videos. Choose relaxing music or nature sounds they find interesting. Go on a Google search for separation anxiety music for dogs, dog calming music, or nature dog TV, and you’ll find hours-long videos to help you calm your dog.

Limit access to stressful areas

Christmas trees, presents, and decorations are pretty to look at but potentially hazardous for dogs. If your dog is prone to nibbling on tinsel or knocking over the tree, consider putting up a barrier to keep them away from these high-risk areas.

Stick to routines

Dogs prefer sticking to routines; otherwise, they might become stressed. Give your pet sitter a schedule they can follow before going on your vacation. Make sure that the schedule includes the usual meal times and regular walks and play sessions. A tired dog is a happy dog (and a less likely-to-destroy-the-furniture dog). 

Practice separation

Before you leave for a holiday getaway, get your dog used to being alone. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) suggests desensitizing your dog to pre-departure cues (like grabbing your keys) and practicing short absences to help them adjust. Gradually increase the time you’re away so your dog learns that “alone time” isn’t the end of the world.

Crate training

A crate can become your dog’s personal den or man cave. However, watch for distress signs such as panting, drooling, or frantic escape attempts. Behavior like this might mean the crate isn’t a calming space for them. In cases like this, put your dog in a room where they feel most comfortable instead.

Calming Products to Help Your Dog

Sometimes, despite all your best efforts, your dog will still need extra help relaxing. Calming products can provide a healing touch for an anxious pup. 

Calming treats 

Look for vet-approved calming treats appropriate for your dog. The American Kennel Club says even senior and high-energy dogs can benefit from these treats. You can also choose treats that offer extra benefits for teeth cleaning and joint health. 

Pheromone products 

Yes these devices actually exist. Pheromone diffusers, sprays, and collars release soothing scents to help your dog stay calm. Small Door Veterinary says these products mimic positive chemicals, helping ease stress and reducing unwanted behavior in pets. They’re natural, safe, and low-risk; however, they may not work with pets less sensitive to them.

Weighted blankets 

Some dogs find comfort in the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket, which may feel like a warm hug when you’re away. Oh My Dog! says they increase serotonin and decrease cortisol to calm anxious pups. However, make sure the blanket is low-weight to ensure it’s safe for them. Also, check with your vet before using a weighted blanket with brachycephalic breeds.

Herbal remedies

Some pet owners swear by pet-friendly essential oils and CBD oil to help their dogs manage anxiety. However, not all dogs may respond to these products in the same way. Consult your vet before you try it.

Don’t Leave Your Dog Anxious During the Holidays

A dog with separation anxiety can also cause anxiety for you who needs to attend to many adult responsibilities or go on a vacation during the holidays. You deserve your holiday break but also want your dog to stay relaxed and happy during this busy season. Thankfully, you can try these tips to calm your frazzled furry friend. It will take some investment, but we promise, it’s all worth it to come home to a happy, healthy pup who’s always excited to see you!

Note: If your dog’s separation anxiety continues to be a challenge, reach out to your vet or a professional dog trainer for more help.