Just like humans, dogs also suffer from ‘FOMO’. FOMO is the fear of missing out on something exciting, for instance, an activity involving people or other dogs. It also includes separation anxiety that a dog experiences due to a lack of attention.
Dogs living in multi-pet households can also experience FOMO. It can lead to destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or whining. However, proper training can help your dog manage anxiety and stay relaxed when they encounter an exciting situation.
FOMO training involves setting up a ‘station,’ a designated place for your dog, such as a bed or crate, where they can relax. You can sit near the station and reward your dog with a treat for staying calm. Although the training requires time and consistency, it leads to a happier and more contented dog.
Here are the top 9 dog breeds that suffer from FOMO.
9 Dog Breeds that Suffer from FOMO
1. Labrador Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds, known for its friendly and outgoing nature. They thrive on human attention and form strong bonds with their owners. Labs are vulnerable to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods.
An anxious Lab exhibits destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, or excessive barking. These affectionate fellows like being involved in all family activities. Labradors are loving companions who feel the happiest when they get an ample amount of exercise.
According to PDSA, they need more than two hours of daily exercise for adequate physical and mental stimulation. Physical activity can include running, hiking, swimming, and playing fetch.
2. German Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 50 to 90 pounds
Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 years
German Shepherds look imposing, but are very kind-hearted. These smart dogs also bond firmly with their owners. This strong attachment makes them prone to separation anxiety. As a result, they may become destructive and indulge in activities like digging or chewing.
These loyal dogs tend to be gentle around their family but are reserved around strangers. Their intelligence and high energy levels indicate that they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Around 90 to 120 minutes of daily exercise will suffice.
Your German Shepherd dog will never like to miss out on any family activity. Positive reinforcement-based training involving rewards such as treats or toys helps strengthen the human-animal bond.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are companion dogs who love spending most of their time with their favorite humans. These gentle and affectionate canines have a strong desire to be around people. They thrive on human attention and connect deeply with their families.
It is one of the naturally anxious breeds, prone to barking and other nervous habits. Like other dogs on our list, Cavaliers are also likely to suffer from separation anxiety. Make sure not to leave your Cavalier alone for more than a few hours.
To manage anxiety, you can also comfort them by providing their favorite toy, starting with short separations, and gradually increasing the time.
4. Border Collie
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 30 to 55 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Border Collies are immensely intelligent and energetic dogs who thrive on physical and mental stimulation. These working dogs love having a job and easily become bored and anxious when left alone for longer periods.
They always keep looking for ways to keep themselves busy. Bored Border Collies can become destructive and try to escape. According to the AKC, these highly trainable dogs excel at activities like obedience, herding, and agility.
Border Collies need more than 20 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. Exercise can include activities like playing fetch and running.
5. Bichon Frise
Breed Profile
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Bichon Frise loves to be the center of attention. They were originally bred as lap dogs and feel the happiest while snuggling or napping in their owner’s lap. These cute little fluffballs have a cheerful disposition, but struggle when left alone.
Bichon Frise thrives in an environment where it gets lots of interaction and attention. Otherwise, they can experience FOMO. A lonely or distressed Bichon Frise will bark and whine. They can also chew toys, bones, and even household items.
They can be energetic at times, but are not one of those canines that never slow down. They require 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay happy and content.
6. Chihuahua
Breed Profile
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: Under 6 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
These loyal and devoted fellows form immensely strong bonds with their owners. Chihuahuas like spending as much time with their humans as possible. They will happily accompany you everywhere. This makes them prone to anxiety and distress when left alone or for too long.
Chihuahuas do best in homes where they get constant companionship along with regular exercise. These moderate to high-energy dogs have a strong desire to participate in all family activities and can be clingy at times.
PetPlan recommends 30 minutes of daily exercise for this breed. Chihuahuas can be protective and tend to bark a lot in the absence of proper training and socialization.
7. Australian Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Australian Shepherds are very active herding dogs that get bored when they have nothing to do. They are used to working closely with their handlers.
Their tendency to be watchful dogs, strong work ethics, and loyalty toward their owners make them prone to anxiety and FOMO.
Australian Shepherds are quite athletic and need a lot of physical and mental stimulation. When they do not find proper outlets to channel their energy, they can become anxious or destructive.
They need regular interaction and do well in households where they get company and remain engaged in a variety of tasks and activities.
8. Cocker Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 13.5 to 15.5 inches
Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
Cocker Spaniel is a devoted family pet that craves constant attention and affection. They have a strong desire to be surrounded by people and form deep bonds with their families. They are likely to experience FOMO if they do not get the desired attention.
Anxious Cocker Spaniels may bark excessively, whine, or engage in destructive behaviors. They are very sensitive and do not like being separated from their owners for too long.
Therefore, if you stay away from home frequently, we would recommend not having a Cocker Spaniel.
These high-energy dogs require at least 60 minutes of exercise every day to maintain good muscle tone and stay mentally fit.
9. Jack Russel Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 15 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13 to 16 years
Jack Russel Terriers have boundless energy and get bored very easily. These intelligent dogs get anxious if their minds and bodies are not busy. They love being part of an action and can experience separation anxiety if left alone.
They might bite, chew, dig, or bark excessively to cope with stress. Jack Russel Terriers need 60 minutes of exercise every day, which can be divided into a couple of walks and playtime. They are well-suited for pet parents who can keep them busy and entertained.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds thrive on attention and love, being surrounded by their favorite humans all the time. If you have a lot of time to spend cuddling and playing with your canine buddy, one of the breeds mentioned in this article might be the right choice for you.
