Grizzy was handling four hours alone beautifully — until fall arrived and evening departures sent us back to square one. When I panicked and called our trainer, she taught me about the 'savings account' concept that completely changed how I understand separation anxiety training. Spoiler: we weren't failing. We just forgot to make deposits.

Separation anxiety affects millions of dogs, but most training advice doesn't account for the real-life chaos of actually living with an anxious dog. Here are five strategies I used training Grizzy that combine practical structure with sustainable approaches, so you don't burn out before you see results.

A candid space for dog parents navigating the challenges of separation anxiety and isolation anxiety with compassion, honesty, and hope.