Why Suspending Absences is Crucial in Separation Anxiety Training
If you’ve been researching how to help your dog overcome their fear of being alone, you’ve likely come across a key recommendation: suspend all absences outside of training sessions.
But what does that really mean, and why is it so important?
What Does “Suspending Absences” Mean?
Suspending absences means not leaving your dog alone for longer than they can comfortably tolerate. For many dogs with separation anxiety, stress kicks in the moment their guardian walks out the door, or even before. In these cases, suspending absences typically means completely avoiding leaving your dog without human company.
It’s worth noting that “alone” refers specifically to being without humans. If you live in a multi-pet household, your other animals can still be present during your dog’s time at home.
Why Is This So Important?
The gold standard for treating separation anxiety is gradual, systematic desensitisation, in other words, slowly and safely increasing your dog’s exposure to being alone, always staying within their comfort zone. When done correctly, this approach helps shift your dog’s emotional response, making alone-time feel less scary over time.
However, any unplanned or unmanaged absence can undo this progress. Leaving your dog alone for longer than they can handle reinforces their fear and can make recovery more difficult. Think of it like trying to overcome a fear of heights you wouldn’t start with a bungee jump. The same principle applies here.
How Can You Realistically Suspend All Absences?
We know this can feel overwhelming at first. The idea of not leaving your dog alone might seem impossible but the good news is, there are many creative and practical ways to provide your dog with human company when you can’t be there.
Here are some options to consider:
Ask for help from friends or family – even short visits can make a big difference.
Hire a pet sitter – someone who can stay with your dog while you're away.
Use a dog walker – Some walkers offer flexible visits and short stays at your home
Explore dog daycare – a great option for dogs who enjoy social settings.
Bring your dog along – many cafes, shops, and even workplaces are becoming more dog-friendly.
By setting up a support system that ensures your dog always has company during this phase of training, you’re setting the stage for real, lasting progress in overcoming their separation anxiety.
The idea of never leaving your dog might feel counterintuitive, and it’s completely normal to wonder if this approach could make your dog more dependent on you. In reality, by not leaving your dog alone during this stage, you’re providing the emotional safety they need to learn and build confidence. Many of my clients have noticed unexpected benefits after suspending absences, not just in their dog’s separation related behaviours, but in their overall wellbeing. Once the daily stress of being left alone is removed, dogs often become more relaxed, resilient, and happier in general.
If you’d like additional support with your dog’s separation anxiety training, I’m here to help. You can reach out to me directly at info.caninesac@gmail.com, or book a free 15minute enquiry call through the Services section of my website.
Let’s work together to help your dog feel safe, confident, and comfortable being home alone.
