• Begin by ensuring your dog enjoys a hearty walk and ample stimulation before you decide to leave them alone. A dog that's had no exercise or mental engagement is more likely to feel upset when left to their own devices.

• Limit the duration of time your dog is alone initially, and then extend it gradually as you perceive an improvement in their ability to handle solitude. This gradual transition minimizes stress.

• Take a moment to be mindful of your actions. Your dog picks up on your cues. The act of putting on your coat, collecting your keys, or heading towards the front door can be triggers for separation anxiety. Try to change these habits and remain calm and composed before you leave.

• Refrain from creating a fuss during your departure or arrival. While it's heartwarming to see your dog overjoyed at your return, feeding into this excitement can exacerbate separation anxiety. Keep arrivals and departures low-key. You may find that just the act of grabbing your keys can set your dog off shaking. If this is the case, move them from their usual place so that your departure is less of a ritual.

• Understand that your dog's age, breed, and previous experiences of being left alone impact their behaviour. These factors can influence the severity of separation anxiety. Dogs are naturally social animals and puppies should not be isolated or left alone  for any extended period of time until they are at least 6 months.

Gentle Crate Method

Many owners use a crate as a tool to manage separation anxiety and this is what I refer to as a Gentle Crate Method. - it is not allowing your dog' to cry it out' which unfortunately does not teach they how to be alone and can actually raise levels of stress and anxiety in your dog.  With a crate you can provide separation without isolation. Try settling your dog in their crate in the same room as you, allowing them to see you. This reduces stress and can be a gentler transition, you can even pop a finger through and give them a tickle!  Make the crate appealing with a new toy or stinky chew.

Your dog may whimper or make unhappy noises in the beginning, but this doesn't signify physical distress. Avoid responding with excessive attention, be present for them but do not let them out while they are vocalising. Take a deep breath. 

Next you gradually increase the duration in their crate or safe space, this may be only an additional minute at a time. The process will be slow.

As you become more confident, move on to the next step. You should by this point be successfully leaving them in their crate for about 10 minutes. Now you can start leaving the room. Increase this time incrementally, returning calmly. 

When you can be out of the room for 15 minutes, try stepping out of the house. Even with the door of the room their in closed, they'll know you've left with their super smell and hearing. The pace of this progression depends on your dog's adaptability.

Incorporate these changes into a plan spanning around 6 weeks. Typically, a dog can grasp the concept through seven repeat experiences. However, it may take longer if past traumas are deeply rooted.

In conclusion, the journey to combat separation anxiety in dogs requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of your pet's needs. By applying these strategies, you can transform this distressing experience into one of growth, strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

Remember, the road may have its twists and turns, but with love, understanding, and unwavering commitment, you can guide your dog towards a happier, more peaceful state of mind.