Search Data Reveals Top Canine Mental Health Disorders In The UK
07.11.21 November 07, 2021 Health

Search Data Reveals Top Canine Mental Health Disorders In The UK

What we search for online can reveal quite a lot about us, and if you’re a dog owner, your search history might disclose a thing or two about your furry friend too. Many of us consult ‘Doctor Google’ to find out about our own health conditions, so it’s no surprise that more and more of us are going online to learn about our pets’ health issues. And we’re not just talking about physical health. Growing mental health awareness seems to have translated into the world of pets too, with many dog owners turning to the web for information on how to care for their dog’s mental health and wellbeing. Here at Lords & Labradors, we’ve looked at online search trends to find out which mental health conditions people in the UK are looking up the most. In this blog post, you’ll discover the findings of our research, along with tips on supporting your canine friend’s wellbeing.    Separation Anxiety Is The Number One Concern Separation anxiety in dogs seems to be the canine mental health issue that we’re most concerned about as a nation, with the term ‘dog separation anxiety’ being searched 8,100 times a month on average. General anxiety is also a cause for concern, with the term ‘dog anxiety’ getting 4,400 searches on average a month. While this subject can often crop up among dog owners anyway - particularly with breeds that are prone to separation anxiety, such as Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions will no doubt have had an impact on people’s interest in this topic. As people return to work and education, and resume more of their usual social activities, it’s likely that many pet owners will be concerned about how their dog will cope with increased alone time. Worried about this issue? Common behavioural signs of separation anxiety include  Destroying furniture or other household items Increased howling, barking or whining Toileting problems Trembling Repetitive behaviour   There are a variety of ways you can support a dog struggling with separation anxiety. It may help to give them a snuggly toy for comfort or a mentally-stimulating toy to keep them engaged when you’re not there. You should also ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise and the opportunity to go to the toilet before you leave so they can relax while you’re gone. You could also hire a dog sitter to keep your dog company, or you might decide to consult a vet or clinical animal behaviour specialist for advice or guidance.    Canine Dementia Is Another Big Area Of Interest With dogs living longer than ever before, canine dementia - officially known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, is becoming more prevalent. On average, the term ‘dog dementia’ is searched online 4,400 per month and ‘dog Alzheimer’s’ gets 260 monthly searches. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, in dogs the condition affects the ageing brain and can lead to memory problems, confusion, disorientation and anxiety.  Worried about this issue? Common Symptoms of canine dementia: Disorientation or confusion Lack of response to usual commands Changes in activity levels  Vocalising more than usual Eating more or less than usual  Increased sleeping during the day More frequent night waking Changes in toileting behaviours If you notice any of the above symptoms please contact your vet.    Autism On Dog Owners’ Radar  ‘Dog autism’ gets around 2,900 searches a month on average. While it may not be an official diagnosis in veterinary practice, the growing awareness of autism in humans may have some dog owners questioning whether or not their pet behaviours might be typical of autism spectrum disorder.  Worried about this issue? While your dog may not be given a diagnosis of autism, it’s important to be aware of unusual communication or social behaviours or inappropriate reactions to stimuli, and you should be sure to seek professional support or advice if you have concerns.    Depression And Dogs Every month, approximately 1,900 searches for the term ‘dog depression’ are performed using Google. If you’re wondering if dogs can actually become depressed, the answer is yes. While their condition may not be as complicated as depression in people, dogs sadly can experience a form of depression and display symptoms such as reduced interest in exercise and play, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioural changes.  Worried about this issue? If your dog seems down, you should ask yourself the following questions: Has your dog’s life changed in any way recently? Is your dog getting adequate exercise? Is your dog being mentally stimulated? Does your dog have the opportunity to play? Does your dog get enough quality time with you? Does your dog have any other physical or behavioural problems that may need to be investigated? Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, you should be able to identify what you need to do to improve your dog’s mood. For example, you might find out that your dog needs more exercise, increased physical contact with you or more boredom-busting activities. You might also decide that your dog needs to be examined by a vet to rule out physical health problems.   Other Canine Mental Health Concerns A number of other search terms related to mental health conditions came up in our research, including ‘dog PTSD’ with 880 searches per month on average, ‘dog adhd’ with 720, ‘dog phobias’ with 720, ‘dog OCD’ with 590, ‘dog eating disorder’ with 40 and ‘dog psychosis’ with 20.  If you have concerns about your dog’s mental health, it’s important to seek advice from a vet or qualified clinical animal behaviourist.    Top 5 Tips To Boost Your Dog’s Mental Wellbeing 1. Exercise  Exercise is vital to your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing. How much physical activity your dog needs every day will depend on the breed and age of your four-legged friend. For example, while Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese dogs may be ok with just 30 minutes exercise plus play time a day, a Whippet, English Bulldog or Cocker Spaniel may need an hour or more of exercise a day. Other dogs, like Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians and German Shepherds, meanwhile, need in excess of two hours of physical activity a day to stay well. You can exercise your dog in a number of different ways. In addition to walking them daily, you could play ball games, go running with your dog or make them work for their food with fun feeding toys.   2. Mental Enrichment Just like people, dogs can get bored so it’s important to keep them stimulated to help maintain their mental wellbeing. There are plenty of engaging and interactive toys that you could try out with your pooch, from dog puzzles, to snuffle mats, to activity balls. You should also spend time chatting to your dog and try to keep them mentally astute by teaching them new tricks from time to time.    3. Physical Touch Tactile communication is very important to dogs. You can help enhance your dog’s wellbeing, develop their sense of security and trust, and cement your bond with them by spending time petting, grooming and snuggling with your furry pal.    4. Nosework Nosework is an activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural hunting instinct. There are plenty of nosework games you can play that will give your dog the chance to problem solve while doing something they love - sniffing. For example, you could hide food in another part of the room and command that they ‘find it’ or you could hide food in one of your hands and present your dog with two closed fists and ask them ‘which hand?’    5. Body Language  Pay attention to your dog’s body language to find out what they’re trying to tell you. If you make a conscious effort to do this, you’re likely to better understand signs that they’re becoming stressed, anxious, scared or sad. Avoiding eye contact can be a sign of anxiety, for example, while growling or tucking their tails in can indicate that your dog is fearful, and if your dog is feeling vulnerable, they might roll on their backs more than usual. 

By Laura Rudd

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What we search for online can reveal quite a lot about us, and if you’re a dog owner, your search history might disclose a thing or two about your furry friend too. Many of us consult ‘Doctor Google’ to find out about our own health conditions, so it’s no surprise that more and more of us are going online to learn about our pets’ health issues. And we’re not just talking about physical health. Growing mental health awareness seems to have translated into the world of pets too, with many dog owners turning to the web for information on how to care for their dog’s mental health and wellbeing.

Here at Lords & Labradors, we’ve looked at online search trends to find out which mental health conditions people in the UK are looking up the most. In this blog post, you’ll discover the findings of our research, along with tips on supporting your canine friend’s wellbeing. 

Canine mental health disorders

 

Separation Anxiety Is The Number One Concern

Separation anxiety in dogs seems to be the canine mental health issue that we’re most concerned about as a nation, with the term ‘dog separation anxiety’ being searched 8,100 times a month on average. General anxiety is also a cause for concern, with the term ‘dog anxiety’ getting 4,400 searches on average a month.

While this subject can often crop up among dog owners anyway - particularly with breeds that are prone to separation anxiety, such as Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions will no doubt have had an impact on people’s interest in this topic. As people return to work and education, and resume more of their usual social activities, it’s likely that many pet owners will be concerned about how their dog will cope with increased alone time.

Worried about this issue? Common behavioural signs of separation anxiety include 

  • Destroying furniture or other household items
  • Increased howling, barking or whining
  • Toileting problems
  • Trembling
  • Repetitive behaviour  

There are a variety of ways you can support a dog struggling with separation anxiety. It may help to give them a snuggly toy for comfort or a mentally-stimulating toy to keep them engaged when you’re not there. You should also ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise and the opportunity to go to the toilet before you leave so they can relax while you’re gone. You could also hire a dog sitter to keep your dog company, or you might decide to consult a vet or clinical animal behaviour specialist for advice or guidance. 

 

Canine Dementia Is Another Big Area Of Interest

With dogs living longer than ever before, canine dementia - officially known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, is becoming more prevalent. On average, the term ‘dog dementia’ is searched online 4,400 per month and ‘dog Alzheimer’s’ gets 260 monthly searches. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, in dogs the condition affects the ageing brain and can lead to memory problems, confusion, disorientation and anxiety. 

Worried about this issue? Common Symptoms of canine dementia:

  • Disorientation or confusion
  • Lack of response to usual commands
  • Changes in activity levels 
  • Vocalising more than usual
  • Eating more or less than usual 
  • Increased sleeping during the day
  • More frequent night waking
  • Changes in toileting behaviours

If you notice any of the above symptoms please contact your vet. 

 

Autism On Dog Owners’ Radar 

‘Dog autism’ gets around 2,900 searches a month on average. While it may not be an official diagnosis in veterinary practice, the growing awareness of autism in humans may have some dog owners questioning whether or not their pet behaviours might be typical of autism spectrum disorder. 

Worried about this issue? While your dog may not be given a diagnosis of autism, it’s important to be aware of unusual communication or social behaviours or inappropriate reactions to stimuli, and you should be sure to seek professional support or advice if you have concerns. 

 

Depression And Dogs

Every month, approximately 1,900 searches for the term ‘dog depression’ are performed using Google. If you’re wondering if dogs can actually become depressed, the answer is yes. While their condition may not be as complicated as depression in people, dogs sadly can experience a form of depression and display symptoms such as reduced interest in exercise and play, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioural changes. 

Worried about this issue? If your dog seems down, you should ask yourself the following questions:

  • Has your dog’s life changed in any way recently?
  • Is your dog getting adequate exercise?
  • Is your dog being mentally stimulated?
  • Does your dog have the opportunity to play?
  • Does your dog get enough quality time with you?
  • Does your dog have any other physical or behavioural problems that may need to be investigated?

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, you should be able to identify what you need to do to improve your dog’s mood. For example, you might find out that your dog needs more exercise, increased physical contact with you or more boredom-busting activities. You might also decide that your dog needs to be examined by a vet to rule out physical health problems.

 

Other Canine Mental Health Concerns

A number of other search terms related to mental health conditions came up in our research, including ‘dog PTSD’ with 880 searches per month on average, ‘dog adhd’ with 720, ‘dog phobias’ with 720, ‘dog OCD’ with 590, ‘dog eating disorder’ with 40 and ‘dog psychosis’ with 20. 

If you have concerns about your dog’s mental health, it’s important to seek advice from a vet or qualified clinical animal behaviourist. 

 

Top 5 Tips To Boost Your Dog’s Mental Wellbeing

1. Exercise 

Exercise is vital to your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing. How much physical activity your dog needs every day will depend on the breed and age of your four-legged friend. For example, while Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese dogs may be ok with just 30 minutes exercise plus play time a day, a Whippet, English Bulldog or Cocker Spaniel may need an hour or more of exercise a day. Other dogs, like Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians and German Shepherds, meanwhile, need in excess of two hours of physical activity a day to stay well. You can exercise your dog in a number of different ways. In addition to walking them daily, you could play ball games, go running with your dog or make them work for their food with fun feeding toys.

Dog exercising

 

2. Mental Enrichment

Just like people, dogs can get bored so it’s important to keep them stimulated to help maintain their mental wellbeing. There are plenty of engaging and interactive toys that you could try out with your pooch, from dog puzzles, to snuffle mats, to activity balls. You should also spend time chatting to your dog and try to keep them mentally astute by teaching them new tricks from time to time. 

Dog Mental Enrichment

 

3. Physical Touch

Tactile communication is very important to dogs. You can help enhance your dog’s wellbeing, develop their sense of security and trust, and cement your bond with them by spending time petting, grooming and snuggling with your furry pal. 

Dog Physical Touch

 

4. Nosework

Nosework is an activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural hunting instinct. There are plenty of nosework games you can play that will give your dog the chance to problem solve while doing something they love - sniffing. For example, you could hide food in another part of the room and command that they ‘find it’ or you could hide food in one of your hands and present your dog with two closed fists and ask them ‘which hand?’ 

Dog nosework

 

5. Body Language 

Pay attention to your dog’s body language to find out what they’re trying to tell you. If you make a conscious effort to do this, you’re likely to better understand signs that they’re becoming stressed, anxious, scared or sad. Avoiding eye contact can be a sign of anxiety, for example, while growling or tucking their tails in can indicate that your dog is fearful, and if your dog is feeling vulnerable, they might roll on their backs more than usual. 

Dog body language

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    As our beloved feline companions grow older, their needs evolve. An old cat (often referred to as an aged cat or senior cat) requires extra attention to ensure they stay healthy, comfortable, and happy. Whether you’re just beginning your journey in looking after an old cat or you’ve been caring for one for years, it’s always beneficial to review the fundamentals of senior cat care. Below, we’ll walk you through essential tips, from nutrition and environment to health checks and emotional well-being, to help you provide the best ageing cat care for your cherished pet. Recognising the Signs of Aging Just like humans, cats often display physical and behavioural signs as they enter their golden years. Although the pace and extent of these changes vary from cat to cat, there are a few common indicators that your feline may be crossing into senior cat territory: Reduced Mobility: Stiff joints, difficulty jumping to high perches, or reluctance to climb stairs can signal aging. Altered Sleep Patterns: Senior cats might snooze more frequently, or sometimes experience restless nights. Weight Changes: An old cat could lose or gain weight depending on their metabolism and activity levels. Changes in Coat and Claws: You may notice a thinning coat or brittle claws as your cat ages. Behavioural Shifts: Increased vocalisations at night, disorientation, or a change in grooming habits can all point to an aged cat needing additional support.Observing these signs is the first step in looking after an old cat. Regularly discussing any new or concerning observations with your vet is crucial for appropriate guidance and timely intervention. The Importance of a Senior Cat Diet One of the key components of senior cat care is providing a nutritionally balanced, age-appropriate meal plan—often referred to as a senior cat diet. Older cats have distinct dietary needs, including higher-quality proteins to maintain muscle mass, along with specific vitamins and minerals that support joint health, kidney function, and overall well-being. High-Quality Protein: Look for senior catfood that lists real meat (like turkey, chicken, or fish) as the primary ingredient. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they thrive on high-quality animal protein sources. Reduced Calories: Many older cats become less active with age. A cat-specific diet with reduced calories can help them maintain a healthy body weight. Joint and Immune Support: Some senior catfood formulas include added nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, as well as antioxidants for immune system support. Easily Digestible Ingredients: As cats age, their digestive systems might become more sensitive. Foods that are gentle on the stomach can help prevent issues like vomiting or constipation. One highly recommended option is PRO PLAN LiveClear Sterilised 7+ Senior Cat Dry Food with Turkey. Formulated especially for senior cats, it provides balanced nutrition with quality protein, essential vitamins, and targeted minerals. This helps support your aged cat’s mobility, immune function, and overall vitality, making it an excellent choice for a senior cat diet. Setting Up a Comfortable Environment An ageing cat may find it harder to jump, run, or climb, so modifying your home can go a long way in keeping them comfortable: Soft, Warm Bedding: Provide plush, warm beds in accessible areas, preferably somewhere quiet. Our luxury cat beds make the perfect nap spot. Easy Accessibility: If your cat loves gazing out of the window or snuggling on the sofa, consider adding ramps or pet steps to help them get there without straining. Temperature Control: Older cats often feel the cold more than younger ones. Make sure your home has cosy spots away from drafts. Quiet Zones: Senior cats appreciate a sense of calm. Ensure there’s a quiet corner where they can relax away from other pets or household bustle. Common Health Concerns in Senior Cats Part of ageing cat care involves understanding the common health challenges that may arise. Early detection and professional advice can save your cat from unnecessary discomfort: Arthritis: This is one of the most prevalent issues in senior cats. Look out for limping, reluctance to jump, or difficulty using the litter tray. Kidney Disease: As cats age, their kidneys may become less efficient. Signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Dental Issues: Tartar buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease can affect senior cats, potentially leading to pain and reduced appetite. Hyperthyroidism: This condition can cause weight loss despite an increased appetite, hyperactivity, and a poor coat condition. When to Worry About Vomiting It’s not uncommon to see an elderly cat throwing up occasionally, as hairballs or slight digestive upsets can happen. However, if vomiting becomes frequent or is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a vet. Chronic vomiting can sometimes indicate gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, or other underlying diseases. Grooming and Hygiene for Older Cats Grooming remains an essential part of senior cat care. Since older cats might experience joint stiffness or other issues that make grooming difficult, they may need a bit of extra help: Regular Brushing: Keep your cat’s coat free of tangles and mats, stimulate healthy blood flow, and reduce hairball formation. Treat them to a new cat brush here. Check the Claws: Senior cats might scratch less or have difficulty shedding the outer layer of their claws. Regular nail trims prevent overgrowth, which can be painful. Learn how to trim your cat's nails here. Gentle Assistance: Some older cats may develop greasy coats or dandruff because they can’t reach certain spots to groom. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to help them clean hard-to-reach areas. Emotional Well-Being and Mental Stimulation Beyond physical health, it’s equally important to nurture your cat’s emotional well-being. Senior cats can still enjoy playtime, mental challenges, and bonding time: Interactive Play: Engage in short, gentle play sessions using feather wands or laser pointers. Adapt the activity to suit your cat’s energy level. Puzzle Toys: Stimulate your cat’s mind with treat-dispensing or puzzle toys. These keep them mentally alert and reward them with a tasty morsel. Quality Time: Spend quiet moments together, stroking or grooming your cat to reinforce your bond. Cats, even independent ones, value consistent human interaction. Regular Vet Check-Ups Routine veterinary visits are paramount when looking after an old cat. Senior cats benefit from semi-annual check-ups, allowing your vet to detect any budding health issues early. Discuss any changes in appetite, weight, or behaviour during these appointments. Your vet might recommend blood tests, dental exams, or nutritional adjustments to optimise your cat’s health. Tips for Simplifying Day-to-Day Senior Cat Care Stable Routine: Cats thrive on consistency. Sticking to a regular feeding and play schedule can reduce stress and help your cat feel secure. Portion Control: Since older cats can be prone to weight gain or loss, measuring meals and monitoring intake is vital. Hydration: Ensure a clean, fresh water source at all times. Some senior cats may enjoy water fountains, which encourage them to drink more. Monitoring Litter Box Habits: Keep an eye out for changes in frequency or stool consistency, as these can be early indicators of health problems. Final Thoughts on Caring for Your Ageing Feline Friend Caring for a senior cat is both a responsibility and a privilege. By focusing on a tailored senior cat diet, maintaining a comfortable living environment, and keeping a close watch for changes in health or behaviour, you can ensure your aged cat thrives well into their golden years. Above all, stay attuned to your cat’s needs. Whether it’s helping them groom, altering their play routine, or consulting a vet at the first sign of elderly cat throwing up, proactive care sets the foundation for a long, healthy life. Each old cat deserves every measure of comfort and attention we can offer, and with the right approach to senior cat care, you’ll provide the nurturing environment your feline companion needs to stay happy and content.

    By Megan Willis

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  • Understanding Pet Separation Anxiety
    10.06.25 June 10, 2025 Health

    Understanding Pet Separation Anxiety

    Pet separation anxiety is a behavioural issue where pets experience extreme stress when left alone or separated from their primary caregiver. While commonly associated with dogs, cats can also be prone to anxiety—so it’s something for all pet owners to be aware of. The reasons behind separation anxiety can vary: some animals have had traumatic pasts, others may have grown overly dependent on constant company, and some simply have a more nervous disposition. Why It Happens Change in Routine: A sudden shift—such as a new job requiring more hours away—can trigger anxiety in dogs or cats who are used to having you around. Past Trauma: Pets that have experienced abandonment or rehoming are at higher risk for separation-related issues. Lack of Socialisation: Animals not used to being left alone from a young age may struggle to cope when solitude becomes necessary. Recognising Separation Anxiety in Dogs When it comes to separation anxiety in dogs, symptoms often manifest within minutes of your departure. Paying attention to these indicators helps you catch any anxiety early, ensuring you can take steps to manage your dog’s stress before it escalates. Common Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs Excessive Barking or Whining: If your dog regularly barks or whines as soon as you leave—or even when you’re just getting ready to go—that may be a clear sign of anxiety. Destructive Behaviour: Dogs with separation anxiety might chew furniture, rip up cushions, or claw at doors. This is often an outlet for pent-up stress. Pacing and Restlessness: Keep an eye out for constant pacing near doors or windows. Restless behaviour can indicate your pup is on edge. Urinating or Defecating Indoors: Accidents can happen for medical reasons, but if it only happens when you leave, it may stem from anxiety. Escaping Attempts: Some dogs will try to escape confinement by digging or scratching at doors or crates, which can lead to injury if left unchecked. If any of these anxiety in dogs symptoms sound familiar, it’s a good idea to consult with your vet to rule out any medical causes. Once you know it’s separation anxiety, there are strategies and products to help them cope. Want to know more about how to support a dog with anxiety? Our Pet Experts have covered it in this handy guide, they’ve put together all their tips and tricks so you can best support your anxious pup. Spotting Cat Separation Anxiety Cat separation anxiety can be more subtle than what we typically see in dogs, but it’s no less real. Cats are often portrayed as independent creatures, but many develop strong bonds with their owners and can become distressed when left alone. Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats Excessive Meowing or Yowling: A typically quiet cat might become noticeably vocal when you’re about to head out—or while you’re gone. Over-Grooming: Cats with anxiety may lick or groom themselves excessively, sometimes leading to bald patches. Litter Box Issues: Much like dogs, cats might begin “going” outside the litter box if they’re stressed about you leaving. Clinginess: Some anxious cats follow their owners from room to room, showing signs of distress if they can’t see you. Hiding or Withdrawal: On the flip side, anxious cats might retreat and hide for long periods, seemingly avoiding interaction to cope with stress. If these signs of separation anxiety in cats resonate with you, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to help ease your cat’s mind. Creating a calm environment and providing engaging toys or scratchers can help your feline friend feel more secure while you’re away. What About Kitten Separation Anxiety? Kittens are at a formative stage in their life, and kitten separation anxiety can set the tone for how they cope with alone time as adults. If a kitten becomes overly dependent on constant human contact, they may struggle to adapt when left by themselves. Ensuring your kitten gradually experiences short periods of alone time can help them develop healthy independence. Combine this with plenty of interactive toys and comforting bedding to offer them both mental and physical stimulation. How to Help Pets with Anxiety Managing pets with anxiety is all about creating a calm environment and gradually helping them realise that being alone is not something to fear. Here are some tried-and-true methods: Establish a Routine: Pets thrive on consistency. Try to feed them, walk them, and interact with them at roughly the same times each day. Positive Departures and Arrivals: Keep greetings low-key. Making a big fuss when you leave or come back can reinforce anxious behaviour. Instead, try leaving and returning calmly, with minimal fanfare. Safe, Cosy Spaces: Whether you have a dog or a cat, providing a comfortable “den” area—like a crate for dogs or a cat tree with a quiet hideaway spot for cats—can be extremely reassuring. For dog owners, we offer a range of calming anti-anxiety faux fur dog beds at Lords & Labradors that give pups a sense of security. The ultra-soft faux fur and supportive design can make a world of difference for an anxious dog. Interactive Toys and Puzzles: Give your pets something to focus on while you’re away. Puzzle feeders, treat dispensers, or scratching posts can keep them mentally engaged and distract them from your absence. For dogs we love the Nina Ottosson range of interactive toys, they keep our pups busy for ages! And for cats we love the Catit Senses circuits, they're great for stimulating your feline's mind. Scent Familiarity: Leave an item of clothing you’ve worn in their bed or safe space so they can find comfort in your familiar scent while you’re gone. Consider Calming Aids: Talk to your vet about whether calming supplements or pheromone diffusers could help reduce anxiety levels. We stock a range of pheromone diffusers here at Lords & Labradors, they work by replicating the pheromones that your dog or cat’s mum would have given off when they were puppies and kittens so can really help to put your pet at ease. Gradual Desensitisation: If your pet becomes anxious when they notice “departure cues” (like picking up keys or putting on shoes), try exposing them to these cues without leaving. Pick up your keys, then set them back down—repeat until it’s no longer a trigger. Building Confidence in Your Pet Fostering independence is crucial for pets with anxiety. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend alone. Start with just a few minutes—perhaps while you take out the rubbish—and slowly build up to longer periods. Praise and reward your pet’s calm behaviour when you return. Over time, they’ll learn that being alone isn’t something to worry about. Our Must-Haves For Pet Separation Anxiety Calming Anti-Anxiety Faux Fur Dog Beds: Our calming anti-anxiety faux fur dog beds are soft yet durable, perfect for making alone time feel safe and restful. Available in all of our best selling bed shapes there's sure to be a bed which meets your pet's needs! Pet Remedy Calming Collection: These diffusers and sprays are natural way of tackling stress and anxiety in cats and dogs, Pet Remedy calming spray and plug-ins work alongside the brain’s natural messengers called neuro-transmitters, which work by telling the nerve receiving the message either to calm or get ‘fired up’. In times of stress or anxiety the nerves get over stimulated, which leads on to the many different signs of stress we see in our pets. The special Pet Remedy blend of essential oils works alongside these natural relaxation pathways to help calm the nerves of anxious or stressed pets without the need for sedation. When to Seek Professional Help If you’ve tried introducing routines, calming products, and training techniques but still notice persistent pet separation anxiety, it’s time to talk to a professional. Vets, certified animal behaviourists, or qualified dog trainers can provide tailored advice and interventions. In some cases, medication might be recommended, but this is typically considered after other strategies have been tried. Final Thoughts Pet separation anxiety can feel overwhelming, but rest assured there are plenty of ways to help your furry companions feel more comfortable during alone time. By understanding what anxiety in dogs and cat separation anxiety look like—and using supportive strategies like routine, safe spaces, and comforting products—you’ll be well on your way to improving your pet’s well-being. Remember: spotting anxiety in dogs symptoms or the signs of separation anxiety in cats is the first step. From there, consistent effort, patience, and a dash of creativity can make a world of difference. If you need extra support, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. And if you’re looking for products to make your pet’s downtime more soothing, explore our Calming Anti-Anxiety Collection to keep your pet feeling secure and pampered. After all, a calm and confident pet is a happy companion—no matter how long you’re out and about! We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of how to spot separation anxiety in your pets and what you can do to help them relax.

    By Megan Willis

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