Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety can be a real challenge for their owners. They may bark or whine incessantly when left alone, or even become destructive. While there are many conventional therapies available, some pet parents may be interested in trying Bach flower remedies. These natural remedies can be very effective in helping dogs overcome their anxiety. There are several different remedies that can be used, depending on the dog's specific symptoms. With a little experimentation, you may find the perfect combination to help your furry friend feel more at ease when you're not around.

dog separation anxiety

What causes dogs to have separation anxiety?

Dogs are social animals, and they thrive on companionship. When they are left alone, they can feel anxious and stressed. There are a number of factors that can contribute to separation anxiety in dogs, including lack of socialisation, previous traumatic experiences, and changes in routine. Dogs who have never been away from their owners may not have the coping skills to deal with being alone. Dogs who have been abandoned or re-homed can also develop separation anxiety because they fear that they will be left again. Even a change in schedule, such as a owner working longer hours, can trigger separation anxiety. The good news is that there are things that can be done to help dogs with separation anxiety. With patience, love, and positive reinforcement, most dogs can learn to cope with being apart from their owners.

What are Bach flower remedies? 

Bach flower remedies are a form of alternative medicine that uses flowers to treat physical and emotional conditions. The Bach flower method was developed by British physician Dr Edward Bach in the 1930s, and it is based on the belief that flowers have unique healing properties. There are 38 different Bach flower remedies, each of which is used to treat specific emotional conditions. For example, the remedy "Impatiens" is used to treat impatience, while "Rescue Remedy" is a mix of several different flowers that is used to provide relief from stress in emergency situations.

The remedies are completely natural, made from flower essences, which are prepared by infusing the flowers in water and then diluting the mixture. By taking the appropriate remedy, it is possible to achieve a sense of calm and wellbeing. Bach flower remedies are safe for everyone to use, including children, pets and all animals. They are also non-addictive and have no side effects. With their ability to restore balance and harmony, Bach flower remedies can help us to lead happier, healthier lives. 

Which Bach flower remedies can help dogs with separation anxiety? 

Unfortunately, many dogs suffer from separation anxiety when their owners leave them alone. This can lead to destructive behaviours, such as chewing furniture or barking excessively. Fortunately, there are a number of Bach flower remedies that can help to ease separation anxiety in dogs. Here we explore a few remedies that can help. Ultimately, the right Bach flower remedy will depend on the individual dog's needs so read each individual description below and determine which sounds most like your dog’s symptoms.

Rescue Remedy

Rescue Remedy is a popular choice for dogs that are feeling stressed or anxious. This is a five flower formula designed to support people and animals in emergency situations or stressful situations where there isn’t time to create a personalised blend. This is made of Star of Bethlehem, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Cherry Plum. 

Rock Rose

Rock Rose can be used for dogs that are feeling panicked or terrified. This level of anxiety is very heightened and intense.

Mimulus

For dogs that are experiencing milder forms of anxiety, Mimulus may be helpful. This is the remedy for anxiety around something specific e.g., the separation anxiety that occurs when an owner leaves for work. This remedy helps to bring calm.

Star of Bethlehem

This is the flower remedy to help with trauma, which unfortunately can be something rescue dogs have had to deal with. This remedy provides comfort and support to help process trauma or shock. 

dog separation anxiety bach flower remedies

Walnut

This is the flower remedy to help adapt to change such as moving house, adapting to a new routine or adapting to a new family if a puppy or rescue dog. This remedy can help to let go of the past and move forward positively into a new chapter. 

Chicory

This is the remedy for dogs that like to be centre of attention all the time and can’t cope if their owner isn’t fawning over them constantly.

Holly

This is the remedy for anger or aggression if your dog is showing aggressive behaviour, specifically if this is aimed at yourself or another person or animal.

Creating a remedy & how to give to animals

You can create a treatment bottle with Mindful Remedies, choosing up to seven Bach flower remedies in a bottle. We don’t have Rescue Remedy listed on the website so if you want to add this, please add a note to your order and make sure to only choose 6 others. A treatment bottle is 30ml and should last around 3 weeks, after which time you should have noticed a shift in behaviour in your dog.

Create a remedy

A review from a dog owner and Mindful Remedies customer…

“I bought a personalised back remedy for a dog in rescue. He is a very stressed dog having lived with a drug taker for 8 years. He was unpredictable and reactive. He now waits for his morning remedy and, although he still has some crazy times, he has calmed down a good deal. Thank you for supplying such a great product.” Anne

Read all reviews

The remedies are taken orally via the mouth. To give to your pet you can either squirt directly into their mouth or add to their water bowl - however make sure your pet is getting at least the minimum dosage each day (which may not be that easy to tell if you add to their water bowl.) You should make sure your dog gets a minimum of 4 drops, 4 times per day. Be careful if you're administering directly via the glass dropper that your animal doesn't bite it!

Create a remedy

about the author

Since 2021, Lucy Edwards, a qualified Bach Flower Practitioner and the driving force behind Mindful Remedies, has connected with clients across the world. Crafting thousands of personalised remedies, Lucy has supported individuals' emotional wellbeing, shipping remedies to far-flung places like the USA, Thailand, and Australia.

Lucy is readily available for conversations, offering personalised advice to guide you on the path to holistic wellness. It's important to note that she's not only qualified but also registered with the Bach Centre, ensuring that every consultation and remedy adheres to Dr Bach’s original guidelines for expert care and efficacy.