Anxious owner, anxious dog

Separation Anxiety: Who’s Really Struggling?

Drop-off drama - it’s not always the dog.

Many pups put on an Oscar-worthy performance at the door, trembling, whining, and acting as if they’re walking into the unknown. But the truth? The anxiety often comes from you.

Think of it like dropping your child off at nursery. If you linger, looking worried and whispering, “Are you sure you’re okay?”, they’ll pick up on your nerves and cling even tighter. But if you confidently say, “You’re going to have so much fun!” and make a smooth exit, they settle in much faster.

They feel your anxiety

We’ve turned countless dogs around just by helping owners change their approach. A quick, upbeat drop-off makes all the difference. One client was so anxious, I finally told her, “If you really think she’s unhappy, let’s skip today.” But the moment the door closed? Her dog let out a deep sigh, shook off the nerves, and trotted happily to the salon.

So next time your pup puts on a show, remember: they’re not heartbroken - you are. Stay confident, keep it short, and trust that they’re just fine once you’re out of sight!