7 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Suffer From Separation Anxiety

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Dogs are social, but many dog owners live busy lives that might require them to leave their dogs at home. Some dogs can handle their alone time with ease. They will relax, sleep, and patiently wait for their owner’s return. However, some dogs hate being left alone. One of the most common issues dog owners have to deal with is separation anxiety in their dogs. If you have a busy schedule that requires you to stay away from your dog for longer periods, you might want to get a dog that can stay alone at home.

What is separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a behavioral problem dogs experience. It is pretty easy to notice because dogs that have it will bark, whine, try to escape, and destroy anything they can get their paws on. This behavioral issue happens when a dog is used to being next to their owners 24/7, so they have no confidence and are likely to act out when they are left alone. That isn’t the only reason separation anxiety can happen. You can read more about it here - Separation anxiety in dogs.

Here are a few dog breeds most likely to suffer from separation anxiety;

1. Labrador Retriever

We have to start this list with the amazing Labrador Retriever. These dogs have been the most popular dog breed in the US for more than a decade. Their social character is the main reason why they are so popular. However, it is also the reason these dogs are likely to suffer from separation anxiety. They hate being left alone, and if you get one of these dogs, you have to make sure you get them used to being on their own.

2. German Shepherd

The amazingly smart German Shepherd is a working breed. It is in their genes to be busy and have different tasks. One of the reasons separation anxiety happens is because dogs have unfulfilled needs. German Shepherds will quickly get bored if left to their own devices. If that happens, they will look for different ways to entertain themselves. Destroying furniture, pillows, trash, or anything else seems to them as a perfect way to do that. They might also bark, howl, and whine. Make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercises to prevent them from developing separation anxiety.

3. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are hunting dogs who have successfully transitioned to the role of a popular family pet. These dogs are extremely active. They were selectively bred to hunt alongside humans, and being left alone is not something they will enjoy. Many GSP owners decide to get their dog a companion. Don’t be surprised if you see someone walking two or more of these dogs. This is a breed prone to separation anxiety.

4. Vizsla

Vizsla is similar to the GSP. They are hunting dogs bred to hunt close to humans. These dogs spend their time helping hunters in the woods, and after, they lived with them in their homes. They are active and intelligent, which means they are likely to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. If you want to prevent that from happening, make sure your dog gets plenty of physical exercises and mental stimulation.

5. Border Collie

Border Collies are the most intelligent dog breed in the world, and they were selectively bred for working in groups. These dogs thrive on company, and when they are left alone with nothing to do, they will develop separation anxiety. Border Collies are also very active. They seem to have an endless supply of energy, so they need to be adequately exercised. If you’re planning on getting one of these dogs, make sure you have enough time to work with them and keep them company.

6. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are small dogs that are usually kept close to their owners no matter where they go. Many dog owners don’t treat their Chihuahuas like dogs. That means they don’t provide them with the training and socialization a dog needs. They might be tiny, but they are still a part of the canine kingdom, which means they have to be trained. Plus, if a dog is not used to being alone, they will most likely suffer from separation anxiety.

7. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers have similar temperaments to Labradors. It is no wonder they are the most popular choice of American families. However, these dogs are used to having company. They thrive on being a part of family life and having someone constantly at home with them. Unfortunately, many of these dogs are not used to spending time on their own, making them likely to suffer from separation anxiety. Make sure you teach your Golden to spend time on their own, even when they are still just a puppy.

World Dog Finder team