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Symptom guide

Dog Anxiety & Separation Stress

Whining, destruction, house-soiling, or panic when left alone — a real and treatable behavioral issue.

Triage

Good fit for telehealth

Mild-to-moderate anxiety responds well to training + calming supplements. Severe cases with self-harm or extreme destruction benefit from telehealth consultation (Rx options like fluoxetine, trazodone).

Common causes

  • separation anxiety
  • noise phobia (thunder, fireworks)
  • travel stress
  • changes in routine or household
  • under-exercised high-drive breeds
  • medical underlying cause (pain, cognitive decline)

When to call the vet now

Any of these signs means telehealth isn't enough — get in-person vet care today.

  • self-injury (chewed paws, broken teeth from crate bars)
  • refusal to eat for more than a day
  • significant weight loss
  • aggression appearing alongside anxiety

Breeds most prone to anxiety & separation stress

Not exhaustive — any dog can have this. These breeds are just more commonly affected.

What can help

Products and services matched to this symptom.

telehealth

Dutch

24/7 vet care and prescriptions delivered

  • Unlimited vet chats
  • Rx delivered to door
  • $11/month
  • Covers anxiety, allergies, derm
See Dutch
telehealth

Vetster

Book online vet appointments with licensed professionals

  • Licensed vets online
  • 24/7 appointment access
  • Video, chat, and voice
  • Prescription support where permitted
See Vetster
supplements

VetriScience Composure

Calming chews for stressed dogs

  • NASC Quality Seal
  • L-theanine + colostrum
  • For travel, storms, fireworks
  • Non-drowsy
See VetriScience Composure

Barkly is not a veterinary service and does not diagnose or prescribe. This is educational content to help you understand your dog's symptoms. For diagnosis and treatment, talk to a licensed vet.