Separation anxiety help in Essex

"Separation anxiety" gets used for several different problems, and the right help depends on which one your dog has.

Panic about being alone. Some dogs are frightened of being on their own, whoever is or isn't there.

Panic about one person leaving. Some dogs cope with anyone at home, and fall apart when one particular person goes out.

Boredom or frustration. Some dogs who chew or bark when left aren't anxious at all. They need more to do, or they're frustrated by being shut away from something.

Fear of something that happens while you're out. Noises, deliveries or people passing the window can frighten a dog who's alone. If noises are the trigger, see our page on dogs who are frightened of noises.

Health. Accidents, restlessness or new behaviour in an older dog can have a medical cause. If it started suddenly, see your vet as well.

Big changes. A move, a new baby, a new job or a change of routine can all set it off.

• Try not to leave your dog for longer than they can cope with while we work on it. Friends, family, a dog sitter or a day at our Big Dog Club day training, once Alex has assessed your dog, can help bridge the gap.
• Film your dog when you go out. A phone or cheap camera shows what's really happening, and it's very useful at the first session.
• Keep comings and goings calm. No big goodbyes or over-the-top hellos.
• Don't shut a panicking dog in a crate. A dog who is frightened when alone can hurt themselves trying to get out.
• Give a long-lasting chew or lick mat if your dog will take food while you're away. If they won't eat, that's useful information too.
• Speak to your vet if your dog is in real distress. Some dogs need medical help alongside training.

1. A 1-2-1 behaviour session. For separation anxiety we usually suggest we meet at your home, because that's where your dog is left. We can also meet at our training field at Roxwell if that's easier. It lasts 1.5 hours and costs £160 at our Chelmsford field, or £190 at your home. We talk through your dog's history, health and day, look at any footage you have, and work out what kind of problem it really is. Then we agree first steps, and we show you how to do them. Book a 1-2-1 behaviour session.

2. Small, steady steps. Most of this work happens at home with you. We build up time alone very gradually, staying below the point where your dog starts to worry. Follow-up sessions at £100 an hour at the training field, £120 an hour at home help us adjust as your dog improves.

3. Residential, for some dogs. If your dog comes for residential training, short, gentle spells of time alone can be part of their daily training. It's one part of the picture, and the work has to carry on at home. We'll tell you honestly whether residential makes sense for your dog.