Have you ever come home to torn pillows, chewed shoes, or sad puppy eyes staring out the window? Some dogs just can’t stand being by themselves, and their distress can tug at even the toughest heartstrings. Separation anxiety is real, and for certain breeds, it’s more than just a little loneliness—it’s a deep, overwhelming emotion. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your life, understanding which breeds struggle with solitude can make all the difference. Let’s explore the stories behind these sensitive souls and uncover why some pups simply need to be by your side.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are beloved for their friendly, loving nature, but this very trait makes them prone to separation anxiety. Labs form strong bonds with their families and often crave constant companionship. When left alone, they can become anxious, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. Their intelligence and energy mean they need both mental and physical stimulation, and boredom only compounds their stress. Many Labs have even been known to howl or bark excessively when left by themselves. Owners should be prepared to invest time and attention into their Labrador’s emotional well-being. If you’re someone who spends long hours away from home, a Lab might struggle to adjust.
Border Collie
Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic, bred to work closely with humans. Their need for mental engagement makes solitude especially challenging. When left alone, they may develop anxious habits, such as pacing or obsessive licking. Since these dogs thrive on having a “job,” being left without purpose can make them feel lost and unsettled. Their intense loyalty means they often shadow their owners from room to room, always wanting to be part of the action. Without enough stimulation or human interaction, Border Collies can become frustrated and stressed. For this reason, they do best in active households where someone is usually around.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are fiercely loyal and protective, forming deep bonds with their families. This loyalty can turn to anxiety if they’re left alone for long periods. Many German Shepherds become distressed, vocalizing their feelings with barking or whining. Some may even go so far as to attempt escape or destroy property in their desperation. These intelligent dogs need a sense of purpose and companionship to feel secure. Leaving them alone too often can erode their confidence and lead to behavioral issues. This breed thrives when included in daily activities and routines, making them ideal for families with lots of time to share.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are true lapdogs, bred for companionship and affection. Their need for closeness means they suffer greatly when left on their own. Even short absences can leave these gentle souls feeling anxious or depressed. They may bark, whine, or display nervous behaviors until their beloved human returns. Cavaliers are happiest when they can cuddle and spend time with their people, and they often become clingy or overly attached. Owners might notice their spaniel following them everywhere, even to the bathroom! This breed is best suited for individuals or families who have plenty of time to dedicate to their furry friend.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are working dogs at heart, bred to herd livestock and partner closely with humans. Their high energy and need for activity make being left alone a real challenge. When deprived of companionship, Aussies can become restless, destructive, or vocal. They may chew, dig, or try to escape the yard out of sheer boredom and stress. Their intelligence also means they need mental challenges, not just physical exercise, to keep them balanced. Australian Shepherds do best in homes where they can participate in daily adventures and have a “job” to do. If left alone too often, their anxiety can quickly spiral.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful, affectionate little dogs that thrive on human attention. Their fluffy appearance hides a sensitive heart that craves companionship. When left by themselves, Bichons can become anxious, leading to barking, chewing, or even soiling the house in protest. They love to be in the middle of family activities and can struggle with feelings of abandonment. Owners may notice their Bichon following them around the house, eager to be involved in everything. These dogs are happiest in homes where someone is around most of the time, and they often do well with other pets for company. Loneliness can truly break their spirit.
Papillon
Papillons may be small, but their personalities are anything but! These lively little dogs are deeply attached to their owners and don’t like to be left alone. Despite their independence in some ways, Papillons can develop separation anxiety if left by themselves for extended periods. This may show up as barking, pacing, or destructive behaviors like shredding paper or furniture. Papillons thrive on interaction and mental stimulation, and without it, they can become bored and anxious. They love being part of the family’s daily routines and activities, making them ideal for households with plenty of company. If you’re away frequently, a Papillon may not be the best fit.
Vizsla
Vizslas are sometimes called “Velcro dogs” because of how tightly they bond with their families. This affectionate breed hates being alone and can develop severe anxiety if left for too long. They may pace, whine, or even injure themselves trying to escape confinement. Vizslas need both physical activity and emotional closeness to stay happy. Their sensitive nature means they pick up on their owner’s moods, and being left out can feel like a personal rejection. These dogs are best suited for active families who can include them in daily life, from jogs in the park to cuddles on the couch. Solitude is their greatest enemy.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are gentle, affectionate companions that thrive on love and attention. They easily become attached to their families and may panic when left alone, even for short periods. Signs of distress can include barking, whining, or destructive chewing. Cockers are known to follow their owners from room to room, always eager to be close. Their sensitive temperament makes them more prone to separation anxiety than many other breeds. Owners who are often away might find their Cocker developing bad habits out of boredom or stress. This breed flourishes in homes where affection and company are always available.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are elegant, graceful dogs with a surprisingly needy side. They form strong connections with their humans and can be devastated by solitude. When left alone, Italian Greyhounds may become anxious, shiver, or hide. Some may even refuse to eat until their owner returns. Their delicate nature makes them sensitive to any change in routine, and loneliness can quickly lead to depression. Italian Greyhounds do best in quiet homes where someone is around most of the time. They love nothing more than curling up on a warm lap, and too much time alone can break their gentle spirit.
Poodle (Toy & Miniature)
Toy and Miniature Poodles are among the most intelligent breeds, but their cleverness comes with a need for companionship. These little dogs adore their families and dislike being left out of daily activities. When alone, they may bark, chew, or develop nervous habits like licking their paws excessively. Their high energy and alertness mean they notice every absence, and repeated separations can make them anxious. Poodles of all sizes thrive on human interaction, games, and training sessions. If you’re looking for a dog who can handle long hours alone, a Toy or Miniature Poodle may not be your best choice.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are charming, affectionate, and utterly devoted to their people. Their playful personalities make them a joy to be around, but they struggle when left by themselves. Many Frenchies develop separation anxiety, showing behaviors like barking, chewing, or even soiling the house. Their flat faces can make stress-related breathing issues worse, adding to their distress. French Bulldogs are happiest when they’re part of the family’s daily routine, from snuggling on the couch to short walks outside. If you’re away often, this breed’s sensitive nature may not cope well with your absence. They need to feel included and loved at all times.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are energetic, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. Their love for activity and mental stimulation means boredom sets in quickly, especially when they’re left alone. Jack Russells may bark, dig, or chew to release their pent-up energy and anxiety. Their strong attachment to their families makes separation particularly hard on them. Even a short absence can make them restless or mischievous. Owners who lead busy lives and are away from home frequently might find their Jack Russell developing unwanted habits. This breed does best in homes where there’s always something to do or someone to play with.
Havanese
Havanese dogs are cheerful companions known for their love of attention. They form deep bonds with their humans and crave constant companionship. When left alone, Havanese can become anxious or depressed, often expressing their distress through barking or destructive behavior. These dogs are happiest when they’re involved in family activities, whether it’s a walk in the park or simply lounging on the sofa. Their playful nature means they thrive on interaction, and solitude can quickly dampen their spirits. For owners who can’t be home often, a Havanese might struggle to adapt to their absence.
Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog)
Shelties are sensitive, devoted, and highly attuned to their family’s emotions. Their herding background means they’re used to working closely with people, and being left alone can be a real challenge. Shelties may bark, chew, or pace when separated from their loved ones. Their intelligence and alertness mean they’re always aware of any changes in routine, and solitude can make them anxious or withdrawn. Shelties do best in homes where they can participate in daily life and have plenty of opportunities for mental and physical exercise. Loneliness can sap their enthusiasm and make them feel lost.
American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and highly social. They love being the center of attention and thrive on human interaction. When left alone, they can become bored and anxious, leading to barking, chewing, or escape attempts. Their playful nature means they need plenty of engagement, both mentally and physically. Owners who are away for long periods may find their Eskie developing unwanted behaviors out of frustration. This breed is happiest in homes with plenty of company and activities to keep them occupied. If left to their own devices, American Eskimo Dogs can quickly become lonely and stressed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog breed isn’t just about looks or energy levels—it’s also about emotional needs. Some dogs are fiercely independent, while others thrive on constant companionship. The breeds we’ve covered here are loving, loyal, and full of personality, but they also struggle deeply with being left alone. If your lifestyle involves long hours away from home, it’s essential to consider how that might affect your future furry friend. With the right environment, plenty of mental stimulation, and lots of love, even the most sensitive breeds can live happy, balanced lives. After all, our dogs give us their whole hearts—it’s only fair we do the same in return.
As a little kid, I fell in love with nature, wildlife, and animals. Living in the USA, South Africa, Italy, China and Germany gave me the opportunity to discover the world's Wildlife. My favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Siberian Tigers, and Great White Sharks.
I'm a certified PADI Open Water Diver, went to Everest Base Camp and Trekked Gorillas in Uganda. I hold a Master of Science in Economics and Finance.
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