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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dog-separation-anxiety-no-punish

You come home to a mess from a dog with separation anxiety. Should you punish it?

No. Punishment can make the anxiety much worse.

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  1. Yes, so it learns
  2. Yes, but only a little
  3. No, it can make things worse ✔

Why: The mess comes from panic, not from being bad. The ASPCA says punishing an anxious dog can upset it more and make the problem much worse.

Huh, didn't know that: Severe cases may need a vet's help, sometimes with medicine plus training.

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What do you call a calm dog? A chill-huahua.
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References

Answer: No, it can make things worse. The mess comes from panic, not from being bad. The ASPCA says punishing an anxious dog can upset it more and make the problem much worse.

  1. ASPCA, Separation Anxiety www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety
    If you punish him, he may become even more upset and the problem could get much worse.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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