Many breeds form very strong attachments to their human companions and suffer from separation anxiety. Although all dogs tend to be social animals in nature, some breeds are prone to psychological distress when left alone for long periods. Here’s a breakdown of 15 canine breeds that are prone to that “lonesome” feeling, along with their specific characteristics and requirements.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are the world’s most popular dog breed owing to their friendly and outgoing nature. They are people-oriented and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Labs are happiest being with their families, doing things like fetching, swimming, and playing.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle, affectionate dogs that crave constant companionship. They’re known for their loyalty to their owners and will often follow their humans around the house. These dogs may fear abandonment as they thrive on being the center of attention.
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a playful and happy breed that enjoys being included in family activities. These furry friends often suffer from anxiety or even depression when they’re left alone for too long — they thrive on human companionship. Their adorable antics make them a delight to be around, but they require constant companionship to be happy.
4. German Shepherd
Some breeds are considerably better suited for specific uses, including German shepherds, which are intelligent, loyal dogs that need mental stimulation and physical activity. These guard dogs can get anxious and destructive when left alone for long periods of time since they bond closely with their families and require human engagament to be happy.
5. Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and high energy levels. They excel in environments where they can work or play; however, when not stimulated, they get bored and more anxious. These dogs are so active that they need constant stimulation, or they become very destructive.
6. Pomeranian
Despite their small size, Pomeranians have big personalities and can form strong bonds with their families. They may bark or get anxious when left alone, as they love attention and want to be included in family activities.
7. Maltese
Maltese dogs are cuddly lap dogs who are affectionate with their owners. They may become stressed or anxious when they are left alone for too long, as they rely on human companionship to feel safe and happy.
8. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are elegant and gentle dogs that adore spending time with their family and love bonding time. They can also become depressed or anxious if left alone because they need frequent human interaction to thrive emotionally.
9. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are friendly and sociable animals who like being part of a family unit. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods; they like company and enjoy being a part of the daily routines.
10. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are well-known for their affectionate nature and make great companions. Though they adjust to compact surroundings like apartments, they don’t like being left behind and can adopt stress-related behaviors if they’re away from their humans.
11. Boxer
Boxers are lively, fun-loving breeds that connect deeply with their families. They can be anxious or destructive if left alone too long as they thrive on interaction and enjoy being included in family activities.
12. Vizsla
Vizslas are athletic, loving dogs, sometimes referred to as “Velcro dogs” for their strong attachment to their owners. They don’t do well in solitude, and they need active lifestyles filled with companionship and adventure.
13. Shih Tzu
A dedicated lap dog that loves to be spoiled by its family, the Shih Tzu is an affectionate companion. They get stressed very easily when left alone, and they thrive on constant attention and love to be the center of household activities.
14. Pekingese
Pekingese have a regal charm about them and can become very emotionally attached to their owners. These small yet proud companions hate being left alone, prefer constant affection, and thrive in homes where they are adored.
15. Dachshund
Dachshunds are playful and joyful explorers known for their affectionate personalities and loving spirit. However, they can get anxious when separated from their families for extended periods, as they depend on human interaction to stay emotionally balanced.
These breeds are excellent companions but need environments where they will not be left alone for extended periods of time. Make sure they have love, attention, mental stimulation, and physical activities to keep them healthy and content to help prevent separation anxiety.
