You give your dog a warm, comfy bed, its favorite snack lying next to it, and the temperature in the room is perfect. Still. The moment you try to step out of the room, you hear a light squeal. As you turn, you see your pup, with its head out of the blanket, giving you the saddest expressions you have ever seen.
It doesn’t want you to leave! Some dogs are like that. Clingier than your ex-girlfriend, wanting to be with you at all times.
Also known as velcro dogs, they want to be glued to you. But that’s not possible. You can’t tuck it in your bag and take it with you to your office. You’ll have to manage the separation anxiety that is unleashed every time you take a few steps in the opposite direction.
Let’s talk more about the clingy dog breeds that hate being alone!
Dog Breeds That Hate Being Alone
1. French Bulldog
Despite being extremely adorable and loving, the French Bulldog tends to react strongly when you get away from them.
As you step out of the room, you can easily hear their sad vocals, requesting you to be back soon. This behavior stems from various factors:
A. Big dogs with lots of energy tend to burn off anxiety through intense exercises and extensive physical activities. For a Bulldog, that’s not possible. It would rather sulk for long periods over your absence than play in the backyard.
B. These dogs were originally bred to be companion dogs. This is why they tend to show strong attachment behaviors with their favorite humans and don’t take the separation lightly.
C. Being a brachycephalic breed, this dog has a very low stress threshold and can’t stay stressed for long. Consequently, it starts to impact its physical health as well.
Bulldogs often exhibit hyper-attachment to one person. When they are separated for any reason, these pups can become extremely destructive and chew everything within their reach.
This Reddit Threat suggests giving this dog lots of its favorite toys so it stays preoccupied and doesn’t sense your removal from the scene.
2. Border Collie
Yes, a Border Collie is one of the most intelligent dogs out there. Still, it tends to develop separation anxiety when it is away from its owners for a long time.
A. When away from the owners, Borders can get bored. The need to be constantly entertained or having a person to entertain may lead to destructive behavior amongst these dogs.
B. Originally herding dogs, these dogs love to work. If they stay idle, they get irritated. They always look for someone to be there with them for interaction or activity.
C. They react greatly to environmental cues and changes, which is something that stems from their intelligence. When something different from the regular occurs, they get stressed and showcase their anxiety through pacing and barking.
The ASPCA recommends providing these dogs with ample physical and mental stimulation through various activities, which may help alleviate their anxiety when you step out of the house. Treat puzzles and training games can mentally exhaust them before you leave the house.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever is a people’s dog in every sense and manner. Originally bred to retrieve fishing nets and be a partner of the hunters, this dog looks for a human companion every time it is alone.
A. Labs tend to form deep and emotional bonds with their owners. They value their relationships with their folks much more than you could even think of!
B. They are intelligent dogs. The moment you get a call from your boss asking you to attend a quick training session, even on a Saturday, this dog will sense it. It would read human cues to perfection, understanding the gestures and emotions accurately.
C. Super attached to their owners, they love to follow them everywhere! Even if you just want to have a quick visit to the loo, your pet may follow you all the way there as the perfect shadow dog.
PetMD advises desensitizing your dog and training it to tolerate alone time. Start by giving it less time alone and then gradually increase this period.
4. Australian Shepherd
These high-energy dogs are so loyal to their owners that they wouldn’t want to step out of the house without them. They hate being alone for long periods.
A. Historically, Australian Shepherds were bred to be close to humans. They would herd livestock and even assist ranchers as their ultimate, trustworthy helpers. Hence, being with humans and accompanying them in tough tasks is ingrained in them.
B. They love routine! Anything that disturbs their schedule will annoy them. If you make a sudden plan to hang out with your pals without this pup, the routine disruption will trigger stress.
C. This active breed of dogs requires WORK. It will feel bored and uninspired when you are not around to instruct it. Without you, it will develop an intense feeling of abandonment and confusion.
Start by giving this dog some crate training. You can also create a safe and cosy space for it to stay comfortable while you are away.
5. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises have been known as the ultimate lapdogs for ages. From being the favorite companions of the European nobility to the best friends of Gen Z, they have come a long way.
Still, they hate being alone for long periods.
A. Bichon Frise is a pro at showcasing attachment-seeking behavior. These dog breeds are emotionally connected to their humans and want to stay close to them at all times.
B. Even if you were successful in dodging your pup and stepped out of the house without it noticing your movement, it is emotionally reactive. It would immediately sense your removal from the situation. Expect a meltdown from the dog whenever this happens!
C. These dogs are always up for some activity and love attention. Hence, when under-stimulated, they may showcase aggressive reactions.
Bichon Frise loves rewards. Offer it its favorite treats whenever it showcases calm behavior at your move away from home for some time.
6. Italian Greyhound
This is a big dog with the heart of a mouse. It hates staying alone and wouldn’t appreciate being away from you for long.
A. This companion dog, bred to be a pet for the nobility, loves human company to the core. It thrives on human interaction and values spending time with them.
B. They are keen observers, and the moment you step out of the home, they sense it. Their separation issues increase when you try to leave while concealing your plans.
C. Greyhounds are known for their fear-based responses. This is why their anxiety manifests in the form of loud barks and chewing on things.
Invest in some cozy spaces for your dog, like a soft crate or teepee-style tent. Here, your dog will feel safe and secure, allowing you to stay out of the house without it throwing a tantrum.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is not just a lapdog with royal heritage; it’s a true companion breed that thrives on constant connection.
Originally bred to be close to nobility, these affectionate little dogs carry centuries of bonding instincts in their DNA. For a Cavalier, loneliness isn’t just inconvenient; it’s emotionally distressing.
A. Cavaliers are bred to be companion dogs, meaning they form tight emotional bonds with their humans. They’re emotionally dependent and happiest when involved in daily routines.
B. This breed is very attuned to human emotions and reacts to changes in mood and routine. When left alone for long periods, Cavaliers can experience genuine anxiety.
C. Unlike more aloof breeds, Cavaliers have a low threshold for being alone. They can become stressed after just a few hours of isolation, making them ideal for homes where someone is usually present.
D. Their friendly disposition makes them great therapy dogs, and their need for interaction means they do best in active households with regular companionship.
If you’re someone who’s frequently away, this may not be the breed for you. But for those who enjoy having a loyal shadow by their side, the Cavalier offers unmatched love and devotion.
Conclusion
Though you would love the exaggerated feeling of self-importance that these dogs give you, it is still necessary to train them to live without you for a few hours. In case of an emergency when you have to leave the house alone, your furry friend must be trained enough to stay behind comfortably.
Jack Russell Terriers, German Shepherds, and German Shorthaired Pointers are also some dogs that love their human families to the core and don’t want to be away from them, even for a minute!
Proper training will help your dog learn to be independent for a short period without you. However, when there is no other option, leave the pup at a doggie daycare as they’ll stay safe there!
