separation anxiety
noun
: a form of anxiety experienced by a young child and caused by separation from a significant nurturant figure and typically a parent or from familiar surroundings
Examples of separation anxiety in a Sentence
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That can put them on edge and heighten their separation anxiety, Langan said, and if their owners are depressed or grief-stricken about loss and uncertainty, the animals absorb those emotions too.
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Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2025
Boredom typically resolves with enrichment, separation anxiety happens when the owner is away, and compulsive behavior tends to be intense, repetitive, and difficult to interrupt—even when the dog is tired.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025
Neglect, Isolation and Being Ignored Warner explains that isolating your pup for an extended duration could trigger separation anxiety and stress.
—William Lambers, Newsweek, 8 Mar. 2025
The American Kennel Club also recommends soft classical or reggae music for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety, noting that the rhythm and tempo help promote a sense of stability and security.
—Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
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Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2025
Boredom typically resolves with enrichment, separation anxiety happens when the owner is away, and compulsive behavior tends to be intense, repetitive, and difficult to interrupt—even when the dog is tired.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025
Neglect, Isolation and Being Ignored Warner explains that isolating your pup for an extended duration could trigger separation anxiety and stress.
—William Lambers, Newsweek, 8 Mar. 2025
The American Kennel Club also recommends soft classical or reggae music for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety, noting that the rhythm and tempo help promote a sense of stability and security.
—Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for separation anxiety
Cite this Entry
“Separation anxiety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/separation%20anxiety. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.
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