Dogs are highly social animals and form strong bonds with their human families. As a result, many dogs do experience signs of sadness or distress when left alone for long periods of time. However, the degree to which dogs are affected by isolation varies between individuals. Here are some key points on whether dogs get sad when alone:
Signs of Sadness in Dogs When Left Alone
Some common signs that a dog may be feeling sad or distressed when left alone include:
- Excessive barking or howling
- Destructive behaviors like chewing or digging
- House soiling
- Pacing, restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy, depression
- Excessive licking or grooming
These behaviors can indicate boredom, anxiety, and frustration when a dog is separated from their owners and left with little to occupy their time. The longer they are left alone, the more pronounced and frequent these behaviors may become in some dogs.
Factors That Influence Separation Distress
There are several factors that can influence how severely a dog may react to being left alone:
- Age – Young puppies and senior dogs often experience more distress when alone.
- Past trauma – Dogs from shelters or with a history of abandonment are more prone to separation anxiety.
- Changes in routine – Dogs feel less secure when their daily routine is changed.
- Breed characteristics – Breeds that are highly social and attached to their people like Labs tend to miss them more.
- Overall anxiety levels – Dogs with general anxiety or nervous dispositions have a harder time coping.
- Length of absence – The longer dogs are left alone, the more likely they are to display behaviors associated with sadness and stress.
Do Dogs Get Bored When Home Alone?
In addition to feelings of sadness, dogs may simply get bored when left alone at home with little to occupy their minds and energy. Mental and physical stimulation are important to a dog’s well-being. Without an outlet for their energy and instincts, dogs are more likely to engage in destructive and anxious behaviors in the home.
Providing for a Dog’s Needs When Home Alone
While some dogs feel acute sadness when owners are away, there are ways to minimize isolation distress:
- Provide interactive puzzle toys stuffed with treats to occupy them.
- Take them on a long walk before leaving to tire them out.
- Play calming music or leave the TV on for company.
- Hire a dog walker to take them out mid-day.
- Leave worn articles of clothing that smell like you.
- Keep absences brief and gradually increase alone time.
- Give lavish praise and affection upon returning.
Signs of Separation Anxiety Disorder
While most dogs feel some sadness when owners leave, chronic and extreme signs of distress may indicate a separation anxiety disorder. This includes:
- Panic responses when you prepare to leave like panting, pacing, whining
- Destructiveness directed at exit points like doors, windows
- Self-harm behaviors like excessive licking or tail chewing
- Eliminating anywhere but outdoors
- Refusal to eat or drink while alone
- Escaping to try and find you
If a dog exhibits pronounced signs of distress when alone, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. They can diagnose separation anxiety disorder and provide tailored treatment recommendations like behavioral therapy, medication, or environmental changes.
Should You Get Another Dog to Keep Them Company?
Some people consider getting a second dog to provide companionship for their frequently alone dog. However, this doesn’t always work and can backfire. Introducing a new dog is stressful. They may not get along well, and the existing dog may still suffer from isolation distress when the new dog can’t accompany them.
It’s generally better to address the underlying causes of a dog’s separation distress through training, enrichment, routine management, and anxiety reduction techniques.
Conclusion
Most dogs do experience some level of sadness, stress, or boredom when left home alone for long periods. However, dogs have varied individual responses based on age, breed traits, past experiences, routine changes, and general temperament. Preventing isolation distress involves meeting a dog’s mental and physical needs before absences through exercise, play, company, and a predictable routine. If signs of sadness or anxiety when home alone become extreme, seeking help from a veterinary behaviorist is recommended.