Free tool
Threshold timer
Time the moment your dog’s worry begins. That number — your dog’s threshold — is where every good plan starts.
Before you start (2 minutes)
- Check the red flags. If your dog injures themselves trying to escape, panics before you leave, vomits when left, has bitten anyone, or is older with a sudden change — see a vet or veterinary behaviorist first.
- Pick a calm day — not after a vet visit, a storm or a long day alone.
- Set up a camera you can watch live where your dog waits, wide enough to see their whole body.
- Open this page on your phone and go through your normal leaving routine.
Ready
0:00.0
Close the door, then press start.
Your results
Results are saved only in this browser on this device. Nothing is sent to us.
Our rule of thumb
What your number tells you
| Worry before you leave, or under 10 s | Start with the leaving routine; strongly consider a professional and a vet chat about medication. |
| 10 s – 5 min | The step-by-step plan is designed for this range. |
| 5 – 30 min | A good starting point. |
| 30+ min and calm | It may be mild — or not separation anxiety. Check the look-alikes. |
Planning bands, not a diagnosis.
Research shows
Why measure at all?
In a small study that filmed five dogs, problem behavior began after 27 seconds on average (Feuerbacher & Muir 2020). Welfare guidance: keep practice absences shorter than the time it takes your dog to become upset (ASPCA). Test on two days and use the shorter number.
Get the full chapter, free
How to read your dog on camera, what to do if worry starts before you leave, and the Quick-Start Card.
Get the free guide
Free PDF · 14 pages · 25 cited sources. No card needed.