Do you have a busy lifestyle but still dream of having a loyal furry companion? The good news is, not all dogs struggle when left alone. Some breeds are naturally independent, relaxed, and perfectly content to nap or entertain themselves while you’re away.
Dogs with high separation anxiety can develop destructive behavior like excessive barking, chewing up furniture, or even scratching themselves out of stress. But certain breeds are calmer by nature and won’t mind spending a few hours solo, making them perfect for working professionals or families on the go.
In this article, we’ll explore dog breeds with the lowest separation anxiety; the chill, laid-back pups that can handle your busy schedule without turning your home upside down. If you want a happy dog and peace of mind, this list is for you!
Dog Breeds With Most Low Separation Anxiety
1. Pug

This little dog has a furrowed face and a wavy tail. They are extremely famous among people due to their lively and affectionate nature. They were originally bred to be a lap dog of Chinese emperors.
They make a very good family dog. Because they are affectionate dogs, they love to spend time with dog owners, children, and even get along well with other pets. They are highly adaptable and sociable and have low separation anxiety, so they enjoy their “me time” as well.
They do need exercise every day, although they are not high-energy dogs. They enjoy short walks and playing games. Moreover, they perform well in competitive games such as agility and obedience.
There’s no reason not to provide them with proper training, as Pugs are intelligent and trainable dogs. The ideal way to train your Pug is with a consistent training schedule with positive reinforcement.
Their grooming needs are minimal due to their short coat. But they shed moderately high. Therefore, regular brushing should be ensured to reduce shedding. Otherwise, you will find a mess around your home due to dog hair.
2. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso is a little breed with a long, dense coat. When competing in appearance categories, this long, straight coat makes them good show dogs. They typically stand tall between 10 to 11 inches and weigh around 12 to 18 pounds.
Thousands of years ago in Tibet, the dog breed Lhasa Apso was born. Due to their naturally alert and independent nature, they have a history of working as guard dogs. They have less tendency towards separation anxiety due to their self-sufficient nature.
According to WebMD, they are extremely playful dogs and need medium-level activity in the form of exercise and mental stimulation to stay content. They like to play with toys and enjoy quick walks.
They don’t demand constant attention and can manage well on their own for long periods. Therefore, good companion dog options for first-time pet parents with having busy lifestyle.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy Spaniel having a friendly, affectionate nature and enjoys interacting with humans. However, they can tolerate being alone for several hours because they have fewer anxiety problems.
Dogs featured in paintings by famous artists like Thomas Gainsborough and Anthony Van Dyck possess similar features to those of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Moreover, they were the favorite dogs of King Charles II that were allowed them entry into any public event and even later into parliament as well.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), it’s consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the US. Compared to other members of the Spaniel family, it won’t demand much physical activity. They enjoy frequent walks and little outdoor playtime.
They are relatively low-maintenance Spaniel dogs when it comes to grooming. But in order to avoid matting and entanglement of the coat, their regular coat brushing should be ensured.
4. Basenji

The Basenji is known for its independent streak and is often regarded as the barkless dog. They were bred in Africa for hunting activities that led to their self-sufficient nature. Due to which they experience less anxiety.
They have a short coat with a little wavy tail. Their almond-like expressive eyes convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions.
They often find ways to entertain themselves when left alone, due to their curious, intelligent, and gentle temperament. Therefore, making them suitable for households where they may have to spend a few hours on their own.
They have high energy demands. So, dog owners should be cautious of taking some time out of their busy schedule to meet their regular exercise requirements.
5. Chow Chow

Chow Chow is an independent dog breed with a dense coat, giving it an appearance like a lion. They do form a strong bond with their dog owners, but don’t require constant interaction. Therefore, their self-sufficient nature and aloofness make them less prone to anxiety problems if they stay alone for several hours.
Chow Chows require at least an hour of exercise each day, but it need not be strenuous. Good additions to the daily routine would be stimulation activities, such as trick training or nose work, or giving them a few toys may also work.
With other household pets like cats, they are generally good. But they may not be pleasant toward strange dogs and humans, and tend to be aloof towards them. Moreover, this dog breed does not bark excessively, as noted by Britannica.
6. Bullmastiff

This large dog breed originated in England, with a loyal and protective nature. They are well-behaved dog breeds that, if you left them alone for several hours, you may find them in the same place. Moreover, they are generally low-anxiety breeds if left home alone for 6-8 hours.
Despite their imposing size, they are affectionate and gentle dogs. They are characterized by a wide head, short muzzle, drooping ears, and a short coat. The coat colors include apricot, silver fawn, brindled fawn, and black.
It tries to become a lap dog with dog owners and is compatible with other household pets like cats. But it is aloof towards strangers. Moreover, they have low energy levels and are not a compatible companion for families, jogging, or hiking partners.
7. French Bulldog

It is one of the most popular breeds in the United States due to its grumpy expression that belies a joyful disposition. They have a gentle, playful nature with moderate energy requirements. They also enjoy resting time, making them less prone to anxiety problems.
French Bulldog has large, erect ears, rounded at the tips, that resemble those of a bat, and it is a small counterpart of the Bulldog. This dog was developed in France as a non-sporting dog.
They are comfortable with pet parents, children, and even with unfamiliar dogs and humans. They don’t bark or start fighting with strangers or other dogs when they stay home alone.
The breed is a valued companion and watchdog, and its short, fine coat may come in several colors, such as brindle, grayish brown (fawn), or white.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to understand separation anxiety and its negative impacts on various dogs. Because many dog owners with demanding work schedules should opt for dogs with the lowest separation anxiety. Understanding anxiety issues would help you in making an informed decision, ensuring that the breed’s needs align with your lifestyle.
Choosing a pet companion from the above list of dogs may help busy owners as they do not have ample time to take care of their dogs. So, having a dog with fewer issues would help them manage their life easily.