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It’s not spite. It’s usually fear.

Dog and cat behavior: why they do it and how to help.

A chewed door frame isn’t revenge. Most problem behavior is stress, fear or a need that isn’t being met. These guides explain why pets do what they do, and the calm, step-by-step plans the ASPCA describes.

For dogs: Separation anxiety in dogs
  • Every figure sourced and dated
  • Checked October 1, 2026
  • No insurer or brand pays to be listed

FYI Summary

Here’s what matters

This changes the whole plan.

  • Separation anxiety is fear, not disobedience or spite. Punishment adds fear and makes it worse (ASPCA).
  • Common signs when a dog is left alone: barking or howling, chewing at doors and windows, escape attempts and accidents in the house.
  • See your vet first to rule out medical causes. Moderate or severe cases need a certified behaviorist.

1 guide

Behavior guides

Start hereFor dogs

Separation anxiety in dogs: signs, causes and how to help

You come home to a chewed door frame and a neighbor's note about the howling. It is not spite. Here is how to tell separation anxiety from boredom, and the step-by-step plan the ASPCA describes.
DogUpdated

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Quick answers

What people ask about behavior

Is my dog destroying things out of spite?

No. The ASPCA says anxious behaviors are not the result of disobedience or spite. They are signs of distress.

Should I crate a dog with separation anxiety?

Only if your dog is calm in the crate. The ASPCA warns against crating a dog that gets more distressed when confined.

How long does separation anxiety training take?

Usually weeks or more. Alone time is built up in steps small enough that your dog never panics.

Before you start training

Start with your vet

A sudden change in behavior can have a medical cause, so the ASPCA says to rule that out first. Accidents in the house, for example, can come from a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, diabetes or kidney disease.

When to get professional help

  • The behavior is getting worse, or it is moderate to severe
  • Your pet could hurt itself, for example by trying to escape
  • There is no progress after weeks of small steps

Ask your vet about a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. Source: ASPCA.

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